A New Year not only brings, joys and resolutions, but also stress and tension. For the working professionals, it means just a few months to go for that dreaded and so important appraisal. The pressure to perform better mounts, and so does stress and anxiety.

Experts say let not the work pressure should not affect your mental health. And if it is, here are some ways to cope with it.

Identify early signs : Feeling confused about your emotions, and inability to understand what you are feeling. Inability to balance personal, social and work life. Lack of sleep and appetite. If you are going through any of these, you might be having mental health issue.

Go on a leave : Take a break, and disassociate yourself with your daily routine. Be bold enough to ask for sick leave from office to cope with mental health issues. Do not be embarrassed, do not feel ashamed. Everyone has mental health issues, not everyone admits.

Confide in someone you trust : Seeking help can work wonders. Rather than bottling up your feelings, discuss them out. Vent them out, confide in family member, friends, colleague. It will reduce stress.