Watch this: one little piece of paper can have a remarkable effect.

Stress is stressful. [Job interview]

But if you understand a bit about what it is, you'll be better able to deal with it.

First, though, take a few deep breaths.

In fact, do that anytime you feel stressed—it helps.

Stress is a survival mechanism.

When danger appears, it can get you out of trouble quickly.

Your body crashes up the gears and throws all its resources into getting you moving.

Your heart pumps furiously to increase blood pressure.

Glucose is sent to the muscles as a fuel injection, and you become totally focused on what psychologists call "fight-or-flight."

Thing is, this emergency state is only meant to last just long enough to get you out of danger.

-But here in the 21st century we stress about different things and for much, much longer. -[Where did I put my wallet? Did I lock the front door? Exams next week!!!]

Your brain and body stay on red alert, and you'll be less able to think clearly, learn or remember things.

Take a few more deep breaths.

Because as you now know stress is a physical reaction, and deep breathing helps to counteract its effects

So, what else can you do?

Okay, top tips to reduce stress—first, get plenty of exercise.

Let out all that locked up energy.

Now back to the problem—get in control.

Scope out the situation and how you're going to tackle it.

Don't stress alone—talk to someone.

Socialize and have a laugh.

You can't laugh and quake with fear at the same time.

Get down with nature on a big or small scale.

And if your mind won't stop worrying, get something else to do instead.