coping with stress

Stress can creep up on us when we least expect it and leave a lasting impact. Use our advice to help notice stress and what you can do when it appears.

What does it really mean when we say we’re feeling stressed? There’s no medical definition of stress. Healthcare professionals often disagree on if stress causes problems, or if it’s the result of them. 

Because of this, everyone defines stress slightly differently. But there are some similarities. It may stem from a situation or an event that adds pressure, like when we have lots to do, or think about. 

Or we may feel stressed when we don’t feel in control of a situation. It could also be our reaction to being put under pressure – those feelings we get when challenging demands are placed on us.

In this section, you’ll find advice on how to deal with stress – whatever its cause and consequences.

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what causes stress and what are the physical signs?

What does stress feel like? There are many more physical symptoms to stress than a lot of people realise. Here’s how to identify them, and what to do when they appear.

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how to spot the tell-tale signs of stress

Stress can affect us physically, mentally, and emotionally. It can impact our health, productivity, and relationships. Dr Hannah Wilson, Head of Clinical Governance and Clinical Psychology Lead at Qwell, explains how to spot stress in yourself and others.

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how to manage and minimise stress

Dr Hannah Wilson, Head of Clinical Governance and Clinical Psychology Lead at Qwell, shares practical ways to manage stress and recognise when it’s time to seek support.

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struggling to manage your workload? here’s what you can do

Feeling overwhelmed by your workload? Learn practical ways to prioritise tasks, set boundaries, and manage stress so you can regain balance and feel more in control at work.

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manage stress and pressure in the workplace

Work is a common source of stress for everyone. But why? What causes it? And what can you do to cope with work-related stress before it affects the rest of your life?

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supporting a loved one who is stressed or anxious

It can be challenging to know how and when to support someone who’s feeling overwhelmed. Here we take a look at how to identify stress in other people, and how you can support them.

training and events

3 September 2025 12.30pm – 1.30pm BST

do more in a day than in a week

Join us for an opportunity to step back and review what you do - your goals and priorities, how you do them, and your strategies and your …
espresso series
4 September 2025 9.30am – 12.30pm BST

understanding mental health, skills for life

Understand the factors influencing mental health, learn practical ways to take care of yourself and have confident conversations about your feelings.
enhanced webinar
10 September 2025 12.30pm – 1.30pm BST

navigating redundancy

Redundancy can be tough, but it’s an opportunity to take control of your finances and navigate the transition with confidence.
espresso series
17 September 2025 12.30pm – 1.30pm BST

supporting young people's mental health

Get practical tips and strategies to talk about mental health with the young people in your life
espresso series

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your questions answered 

Who is eligible for support?

We support past and present members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW), ACA students, ICAEW staff members, and the family and carers of members and students. 

Not sure if you’re eligible? Use our interactive eligibility tool to check if you or your family could get support.

Are your services open to everyone, regardless of financial situation?

Most of our services, including mental health support and legal advice, are provided free regardless of your financial circumstances. For our financial grants, we will conduct an assessment, looking at your income and assets, to determine what help we can provide.

I’m an accountant, but not a member of ICAEW, can you still help?

Unfortunately not. We only support past and present ICAEW members, their carers and their families. If we are unable to support you, where possible we will point you to help elsewhere. Please visit the ACO members page to see if there is another occupational charity that can assist you. 

caba has supported me in the past; can I receive support from caba again?

We assess all applications based on current circumstances. Whether you’ve received support in the past or not, we’ll discuss all your options with you. Please call us if you need our help.

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