Millions of people around the UK are experiencing high levels of stress every day without knowing the impact it can have on their health and well-being. Experiencing stress, especially over prolonged periods, can severely affect your physical and psychological health. That is why it is essential to take care of yourself and find ways to destress and relax.
What are the effects of stress?
In many cases, stress is often caused by big changes, times of uncertainty, and lots of pressure. When the body experiences stress, it can endure several symptoms, such as:
- Headaches
- Chest pains
- Insomnia
- Low energy
- An upset stomach
- And much more.
What month is Mental Health Awareness Month?
Stress Awareness Month is held every April and has been since 1992. The month is dedicated to spreading public awareness about the different types of mental health issues and promoting tips, tricks and resources to support one another.
How do you promote stress awareness?
- Talk about it – when you talk about stress and its effects, it reduces the stigma associated and allows for change to occur.
- Be kind – if you know someone who is stressed, then one of the best things you can do is remain a positive influence. We all need someone to lean on once in a while.
- Put yourself first – when you go through stressful periods in your life, it is easy to neglect certain areas. That is why self-care is essential. Take time from your day to do something you love. Relax, exercise, cook, read a book.
- Be open – if you or someone you love is experiencing stress, sharing your coping mechanisms is often a great way to help one another.
What is the 30-day challenge, and how do I get involved?
Although the Stress Awareness event has been ongoing since 1992, we are a long way from finding a cure for stress. Thankfully, there are interesting activities and events you can get involved with to spread awareness and promote healthier physical and mental health. One particular event is the 30-day challenge.
A 30-day challenge is an event hosted by the Stress Management Society. They acknowledge how it takes 30 days to form a new habit or break a bad one. So, for the month of April, they recommend partaking in a 30-day challenge to maximise your mental health knowledge. You will also learn new techniques and positive behavioural changes to help you remain positive, stress-free and healthy.
What else can I do to combat stress?
Exercise
While it won’t make your stress disappear, the NHS states that exercise is crucial for a healthy mindset. Being active can help cleanse your mind of the emotional intensity you are feeling, which can help shift your mood and make you feel better. From walks in the park, swimming, running, weight training. Whatever your preferred choice of exercise is, it can contribute to a healthier and healthier mindset.
Money
Money is often a factor that causes people to stress and worry. Whether it’s covering your monthly bills, affording a weekly shop, or simply replacing an old pair of work shoes. Financial worry is one of the most common, but it doesn’t have to be. Remember, with our discounts you can save when shopping at big brands, such as Tesco, Iceland, Asda, JD Sport, Newlook and much more. You can also sign up for our Cashback Card and earn 12% cashback when shopping at qualifying retailers.
Balanced Diet
When people experience periods of stress, the implications can often trickle into other areas. For example, you might stop cooking for yourself. We all go through similar experiences, but it doesn’t have to define who we are. Tools and companies are available to help make our lives easy and take some weight off our shoulders, such as HelloFresh. With HelloFresh, you can get £15 off your first 4 recipe boxes. HelloFresh would be a great way to keep you motivated and on track when life gets heavy.
Sharing
Sharing your tips and tricks for coping with stress is a great way to help others. Not only does it destigmatise the negativity associated with mental health conversations, but your advice could help someone in a stressful time. We would love to hear from you! Why not head over to our social media and let us know how you cope with stress.
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