Funny, I’ve been told by many a doctor that cutting down on tea has health benefits, most vitally reducing stress.

Being a tea-addict, I was mortified recently when I was advised by a GP to cut it out in favour of decaffeinated brews. Whatever people say, it’s not the same. However, now I’m back on the hard stuff, after learning how tea isn’t as I’d been led to believe, a stress-inducer, it is, in fact, a stress-reliever.

Putting the kettle on helps to cut stress levels, say researchers at London’s City University. Those who did not drink tea after a crisis experienced a 25 per cent increase in anxiety compared to those who did.

Great, now I can go back to the high-caffeine, full-strength tea of my dreams. I’ve always believed it is the key to a happy life.

Not that tea is the only stress-buster I employ on a daily basis. There are others, not quite as effective, but which I’m pleased to pass on: Stroking a cat To me, this is the best method of stress relief. I never tire of stroking our Ginger Tom – he probably hates me for constantly mauling him as he sleeps. Watching a good TV drama with a cat on your knee is one of the nicest ways to spend an evening.

Eating The phrase ‘comfort-eating’ is usually associated with slimmers, but everyone is at it. I’ve been comfort-eating since birth, finding solace in a plate of fish and chips with enough bread and butter to feed an army. And, of course, a mug of tea.

Drinking I know if drunk to excess, there’s a massive downside to alcohol, but in moderation it’s a pretty good way of raising spirits. A glass or two of wine can banish thoughts of mortgages, bills and other stressful problems. Although you have to face up to them the morning after.

Cleaning It sounds crazy, especially coming from someone so completely un-houseproud, but I always feel so much more at ease after clearing out a cupboard or drawer. I felt a weight lifting after recently tidying my underwear drawer – due, I think, to the fact that no longer will it take me half an hour to disentangle tights from bras, socks and knickers, making me miss my bus.

Gossiping with friends Last, but definitely not least, this has to be the best, most tried-and-tested form of stress relief. Off-loading my troubles on to good friends always makes me feel better. Even more so with a cup of tea in my hand.