Stress Awareness Month 2023

We all face many challenges in life, which can make us feel stressed, or cause worry and anxiety. During this Stress Awareness Month (April 2023), be aware of how you are feeling and use the advice below to try and help reduce your level of stress.

HOW TO COPE WITH STRESS

You may find yourself worrying about a range of issues and feel increasingly overwhelmed or anxious. You might be worried or anxious about things like money, family, your health or work.

PAUSE AND TAKE A MOMENT

It is important to stop and take a moment for yourself when you start to feel stressed. If you are in the middle of doing something or in the presence of other people, excuse yourself and find a space where you can pause, breathe and take a moment.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

It is important to remember that you are not alone and that others are feeling it too. Anxiety and worry will affect us all at some point in our lives.

When we are going through a tough time, we often think negative thoughts about ourselves, and we may feel very alone.

Even if you don’t have family or friends close by, you are never alone. You could join one of our Peer Support groups, refer yourself for Talking Therapy, or join Mind’s online community, Side by Side.

You can also call Samaritans on 116 123 (24hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year)

THESE FEELINGS WON’T LAST FOREVER

When we are experiencing a stressful situation, it is difficult to look beyond it; it feels as though the stress will never end.

Talking to someone about how you’re feeling can help put things into perspective and help you to feel more positive about the future.

KNOW EVERYTHING WILL BE OKAY

Be safe in the knowledge that if the feeling of ‘What if…’ occurs, you can solve it as you have with other difficulties.

ASK FOR HELP

Ask for help if you can. If you are feeling stressed at work, speak to your line manager, a colleague or the HR team. If your finances are causing you worry, speak to your bank or get advice from Citizens’ Advice.

Talk to a friend or family member about how you are feeling, or contact one of the organisations mentioned on this page.

THE 5 WAYS TO WELLBEING

The 5 Ways to Wellbeing can really help you to look after yourself and improve your overall wellbeing. Find out how you to introduce the five steps into your life.

IF YOU NEED ADDITIONAL SUPPORT…

If you are struggling with stress, anxiety or low mood, find out how Community Living Well can help you. 

Author: Stewart Gillespie
Posted on: 31st March 2023