The importance of Stress Awareness Month is to remind us to pay attention to our health.
Stress and poor mental health are one of the biggest public health challenges that we’re facing these days. If you’re stressed, you might feel irritable, angry, impatient or wound up, over-burdened or overwhelmed, anxious, nervous or afraid. Nobody is immune, yet amazingly, we don’t always notice when it’s happening to us!
Sources of Stress
The five most common sources of stress seem to be money, work, family, economic outlook and relationships. You can feel under lots of pressure when;
Facing big changes in your life.
You are worried about something.
Don't have much or any control over the outcome of a situation.
Accessibility issues
Inclusivity issues
Have responsibilities that you find overwhelming.
Don't have enough work, activities or change in your life.
Experience discrimination, hate or abuse.
Stress and our physical health
We continue to separate mental health from physical health and vice versa. The reality is they are two sides of the same coin. People living with stress are more susceptible to a variety of illnesses, from headaches and insomnia to high blood pressure and heart disease, as well as more serious mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.
How you can help yourself
It’s critical to recognise what stress and anxiety look like, take steps to build resilience, and know where to go for help.
Talk about Stress and its effects openly and freely with friends, family and colleagues.
Share your coping mechanisms. If something has worked for you, why not share it? It might benefit someone you care about and in the meantime, it might help you take your focus off your own challenges.
Be nice to those who are stressed and anxious. We are all undoubtedly going to experience stress and anxiety in our lifetime so treat others going through it with compassion and empathy.
Look after yourself and think more about self–care. Take time out of your day to relax or do something that you enjoy. Don’t forget to exercise and eat well, and learn to say no to requests that are too much for you.
Helplines
Here are some wonderful examples of resources available to give you help and guidance if you’re dealing with stress;
The Mix
Helpline: 0808 808 4994
Mind
Helpline: 0300 123 3393
Anxiety UK
Helpline: 08444 775 774
C.A.L.L (Wales only)
Helpline: 0800 132 737
Side by Side An online support community
www.bemindful.co.uk Mindfulness Courses based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
www.calm.com A mindful meditation app
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