Supporting you this stress awareness month

Stress Awareness Month happens every April to raise awareness of what has been called our modern stress epidemic. According to the Mental Health Foundation, 74% of UK adults have felt so stressed at some point that they have felt unable to cope.

Stress has perhaps become more common for a larger number of us because of coronavirus. We are still going through a difficult and a somewhat uncertain time, which can be very stressful. So it’s even more important we look after ourselves and each other.

Stress is the body’s reaction to feeling threatened or under pressure. The signs of stress can vary from person to person but common physical feelings can include headaches, sweating, a racing heart and feeling sick, dizzy or faint. Emotionally, you can be anxious, irritable, overwhelmed or tearful.

This month is our opportunity to help break the stigma around stress! Openly talking about stress and its effects with our friends and colleagues, and showing compassion to those who are feeling anxious. Most importantly, looking after yourself. The last year has been an extremely difficult time for all of us, so take time out of your day to relax and ensure you have space to breathe.

One of the ways you can do this is at the CCG’s fortnightly mid-week mindfulness sessions. Mindfulness is a great way to help you focus your mind when you’re feeling overwhelmed. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety, plus a whole lot more. These sessions should already be in your calendar or see details in the Events calendar on AskHUE.To find out more about what you can do during Stress Awareness Month, visit the Stress Management Society website.

Get help and support

If you need to talk, please reach out to a friend, loved one or a colleague. There are a number of support services and resources available on the Health and wellbeing support page on AskHUE. One of which is the Employee Assistance Programme, provided by our HR and ODL team.

If you’re in need of a friendly ear, you could reach out to one of our Mental Health First Aiders who are here to listen. You can also contact EPUT’s Here for you 24/7 support service for healthcare workers across Herts and Essex.