Stress Awareness Month

Stress Awareness Month has been held every April, since 1992 to increase public awareness about both the causes and cures for our modern stress epidemic. This year’s theme is work related stress during the month SCVO will be sharing tips and resources on our social media platforms to help you so make sure you have connected to our Twitter and Facebook accounts.

It is important to remember we all feel stressed at times and many aspects of life can cause stress. Whether it’s work or juggling the balance of relationships and childcare, there are many lifestyle factors that contribute to stress that eventually lead to further mental health problems.

It’s important to learn to recognise and spot the signs of stress so you can put your own coping techniques into place. Looking after our mental health and wellbeing is important for all of us and there are things we can do to help us look after our mental wellbeing. This could include going for a walk and taking notice of nature, getting creative, connecting to the people around us more and talking about how we are feeling.

Socialising with others has multiple benefits for our mental health, whether it’s a sport, hobby classes or volunteering, activities like these all give meaning and purpose to our lives and make us more confident. Why not check out SCVO’s Route2Wellbeing Portal to find a new hobby or interest or visit Let’s Go Sandwell to start your volunteer journey.

Whilst having the opportunity to laugh and chat with others in social situations serves to temporarily distract us from our worries by turning our focus outwards instead of inwards. And being able to talk through problems and share our worries with others decreases our stress levels.

Mental Health UK have got lots of tips and ideas covering the key areas of health and wellbeing to help you manage your mental health and feel your best self. Visit their website by clicking here.

The Stress Management Society also have free resources and information to help click here.