During April, the Schuylkill County Mental Health/Developmental Services and Drug and Alcohol Programs will be addressing the effects of stress.

Banners will be hanging in front of both the Schuylkill County Courthouse, 401 N. 2nd St., Pottsville and the Human Services building at 410 N. Centre St, Pottsville, for the month.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of stress have effects on behavior, body, feelings, thoughts and behavior. Stress may cause headaches, insomnia, anxiety, and lack of motivation. Some common effects include restlessness, drug and alcohol abuse, fatigue, stomach upset, feeling overwhelmed and sadness and/or depression.

Managing stress can include regular exercise, deep breathing, spending time with family and friends, new hobbies. You should avoid excessive television, video games and internet these can add to stress. Eat a healthy diet, limit caffeine and alcohol or illegal substances.

If you have tried to control your stress and these steps don’t seem to help see your doctor, therapist or counselor. They may be able to identify the cause of your stress and teach you some new coping skills.