Stress is an unavoidable part of life and results from the continuous high demands we put on ourselves or which are imposed upon us.

It can cause problems in relationships at home and at work and is responsible for more than 60 per cent of diseases. Even children are affected by it.

Homeopathy recognizes that people respond individually to stress. One person may become quiet, sad and weepy, while another may become irritable and angry.

Homeopathy offers fast and curative solutions to a wide range of stress-related conditions including fear, anxiety, nervousness, over-sensitivity, performance stress, irritability, restlessness, anger, disappointment, depression and the effects of shock.

Many people are suffering from the negative effects of stress and don't even know it.

Homeopathic stress treatment is likely to be constitutional.

However, in acute circumstances, one of the following remedies can offer temporary relief:

Aconite is for anxiety resulting from a sudden fright/shock and panic attacks with very strong fear (even of death). There may be palpitations, shortness of breath, and flushing of the face.

Arg-nit is indicated for anxiety before big events (exams, interviews) with abdominal pains and diarrhoea.

Arsenicum is for people anxious about their health, concerned with order and security, obsessive about small details and feel a desperate need to be in control.

Calc-carb will suite dependable people who become overwhelmed and start to fear a breakdown. Their thoughts can be muddled and confused when tired, which adds to the anxiety. Worry and bad news agitate them.

Gelsemium is for people "paralysed by fear" before a public performance, an interview or any stressful event.

A sensitive person anxious because of grief, loss, disappointment, criticism, loneliness or any emotional upset may benefit from Ignatia.

A defensive attitude, mood swings and bursting unexpectedly into either tears or laughter are other indications.

When a person feels exhausted by overwork or illness, anxious and unable to cope, Kali phos may help.

Individuals responding to Lycopodium are anxious from mental stress and suffer from a lack of confidence or a fear of failure. They are self-conscious and feel intimidated by people they perceive as powerful.

The primary candidates for Nat-mur are people with deep emotions and a self-protective shyness that makes them seem reserved and private. Even when feeling lonely, they tend to stay away from social situations, not knowing what to say or do.

Phosphorus is indicated for open-hearted people who are imaginative, excitable, easily startled and full of intense and vivid fears which can be triggered by almost anything.

People needing Pulsatilla express anxiety as insecurity and clinginess, constantly needing support and comforting. They are moody, tearful and whiny.

Silica is indicated for those who are capable, responsible and diligent, yet also nervous, shy and subject to bouts of temporary loss of confidence.

Elizabeth Whitney is a qualified, registered homeopath and can be contacted at Advanced Homeopathic Centre, 62 Palmeira Avenue, Hove.

Call 01273 390938 or email elizabethwhitney@onetel.net.uk