Emotional Wellness Mary Symmes is the founder of Self Investment Strategies and a life coach devoted to the empowerment of working women. Mary is also a clinical social worker in Alexandria, Va. Visit her Web site at SelfInvestmentStrategies.com Too much stress Question: I just started my own business 6 months ago, and even though things are going very well and I have a partner who really works hard, I worry about the business all the time. Sometimes (usually I can't get to sleep or I wake up early with my mind racing. I am always tired and feel very snappy and tense. What can I do about my stress levels? Answer: Based on what you have told me, it isn't clear if you are just MEGA-stressed or may have developed a clinical depression. (The early morning waking and constant fatigue are classic symptoms of depression). First, I hope you are not upset by the possibility of having depression - between 50 and 80% of women have a depressive episode at some time in their lives. It is a physical illness in your brain which is affected by stress and other environmental factors, and is very readily treated! I think it would be a good idea to see your family doctor, tell him/her how you have been feeling, and see if antidepressant medication could help. Be as open as you can with your doctor. Don't let feeling ashamed or scared keep you from getting relief. To reduce your stress, here are a few quick suggestions: Get at least 15 minutes of aerobic exercise daily. You can squeeze in 15 minutes! You don't have to change clothes or go to a gym, just walk around the block fast enough to breathe a little harder and work up a light sweat. Or dance, or jump rope, or whatever is convenient and enjoyable for you. Practice some kind of relaxation or meditation, especially before you go to bed. Use deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation - there are many books to give you ideas. Yoga classes are great! Ask for help. Tell your partner how you feel. Sit down with him/her and figure out if you in reality need to be working so much. If not, let him/her take care of some of your workload, at least temporarily. Also, ask for help at home if you need it. Work with your home or business partner in developing priorities for the week and month, and only expect yourself to do the top priorities. It's amazing how much can wait to be done! You may also benefit from talking to a coach, mentor, or therapist to help you get back a realistic perspective on your work. Give yourself at least one day of a full break every week, and do something that refreshes your spirit. You can get a massage, play with your pet, see friends, or whatever you love to do, but get away from work for 24 hours. Also, to help you let go of work at night, make a to-do list for the next day and leave it at the office. It will help you feel prepared, and symbolically you will be leaving work at work. There is a lot out there about stress management, but I particularly recommend "Self Nurture" by Alice Domar, Ph.D. She has a lot of good ideas and seems to be a very sane, compassionate person. Other Recent Questions: I can't decide if I should go back to work after I have a baby or not. Any advice? I'm worried that my husband may be having an affair. How can I find out? Ask Mary your questions The above is for general information only and is not intended to substitute for professional mental health treatment. Individuals should consult licensed professionals as needed.