Stress Awareness Month: Top tips for managing stress
April is Stress Awareness Month and theme in Little by Little. It's all about the big difference that small positive actions can have on our overall wellbeing.
Below you will find some practical self-care tips for managing stress from our Mental Health Staff Network. From short daily walks to breathing exercises and journalling, find what works for you.
Take a 10-minute walk : step outside and enjoy a short walk to clear your mind. Walking won't make your stress disappear, but it can reduce some of the emotional intensity that you're feeling, clearing your thoughts and letting you deal with your problems more calmly. If you’re looking for somewhere new to stretch your legs, why not check out the new Springfield Park?
Talk it out: a good support network of colleagues, friends and family can ease your troubles and help you see things in a different way. Talking things through with a friend may also help you find solutions to your problems.
Practice breathing techniques : deep breathing exercises can help calm your mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.
Explore relaxation techniques: explore short relaxation techniques such as drawing calming circles or connecting with your senses to help you de-stress.
Keep a journal: writing down your thoughts and feelings in a journal can provide a sense of release and clarity, helping you process stressors and gain perspective.
Be active: being active has a positive effect on our mental wellbeing by relaxing and boosting our mood. Discover a physical activity that you enjoy – it doesn’t have to be a strenuous workout, you could do some pilates or yoga. The NHS website has some free pilates and yoga exercise videos you could try.
Break tasks down: When faced with large tasks in the workplace or at home, break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. And give yourself credit when you finish a task.
Plan ahead: Prepare for stressful days or events by planning and organising your tasks. Having a clear plan can alleviate anxiety and help you feel more in control!
Further information and support
- Mind – managing stress and building resilience: get advice to help you adapt and bounce back during difficult times
- Every Mind Matters – get your free Mind Plan: personalised mental wellbeing tips and advice to your email inbox
- Every Mind Matters – self-help cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques: learn how to manage stress and worry, and boost your mental wellbeing
- NHS – 10 stress butters: suggestions for addressing and managing stress
