1. Create some space for yourself

If you think you are becoming stressed, take a step back. Give yourself some space, take some time every day to do something you enjoy and not think about anything else. Impossible? Not so. Everyone has 15 minutes a day they can reserve for themselves. It might be just a walk around the block or a bath with the door locked and earplugs in. The important thing is that you get some time to yourself

2. Know your limits

If your expectations are sky high you will inevitably spend a lot of time being frustrated and disappointed. Instead, be realistic about what is achievable and celebrate success at every opportunity. Remember that you are entitled to breaks and annual leave €“ take them. And make sure you get a reasonable and consistent amount of sleep

3. Learn to relax physically

Believe it or not, being able to relax your body is a skill. You must teach yourself to do it effectively and, once you do, it can be very powerful. Relaxation is best done every day and at a time and place where you will not be disturbed. People relax in different ways. For some, physical exercise is a good way of relaxing; others may do it quietly with a relaxation exercise. Find what works best for you

4. Talk

If things do feel like they are getting on top of you, perhaps you could consider the most difficult of all things €“ talking about it. Speak to someone you trust, outside or inside your work, about the things that are causing you stress.

There is also support available to you from the Listening Friends scheme, which offers free telephone help to pharmacists under stress (www.pharmacistsupport.org). The scheme can put you in touch with a fellow pharmacist to talk about the problems causing the stress. The Listening Friend will have insight into the particular pressures that apply in pharmacy, but the service is also there to help with problems that are unrelated to work. The service is run by volunteer pharmacists who have been trained in listening skills and may be able to direct pharmacists under stress to more specialist help if needed.

A Listening Friend volunteer will return a call within 24 hours. Call 0808 168 5133 to leave a voicemail with your name, contact number and a convenient time to call back.