When stress is getting to you B1
Opening up to a friend about feeling burnt out at work.
handle stress — manage pressureA: Work has been so hectic lately. How do you handle stress?
B: I usually go for a walk or talk to a friend. It really helps.
take its toll C1 — cause gradual damage (often over time)A: You look exhausted lately. Everything okay?
B: Honestly, the long commute is starting to take its toll on me.
a vicious cycle C1 — self-worsening loopA: I keep spending too much, then I get stressed about money, and then I shop to feel better.
B: Sounds like a vicious cycle—you need to break it somehow.
A quiet word at the pub
Beth: You alright? You've seemed a bit frazzled lately.
Will: Work's mad at the minute. I'm struggling to handle the stress, to be honest.
Beth: It's really starting to take its toll on you, isn't it.
Will: Yeah. I'm not sleeping, so I'm tired, so I cope worse — it's a proper vicious cycle.
Checking in
Mum: You look shattered, love. How are you really doing?
Kate: All these deadlines are starting to take their toll.
Mum: You need to learn to handle the stress before it gets on top of you.
Kate: I know. I'll take the weekend off and switch the phone right off.