jmarchitects recognises National Stress Awareness Day 2024

National Stress Awareness Day occurs on Wednesday 6th November 2024 and is dedicated to raising awareness about stress; how it can impact our physical and mental wellbeing; and how we can manage stress in healthy and sustainable ways.

There are many reasons we can feel stressed - whether it’s a deadline at work, a change in our personal circumstances or additional pressure we place on ourselves. Sometimes stress can be helpful for us as motivation in certain situations, as part of our in-built fight or flight response. However, if we feel anxious, overwhelmed or stressed for long periods of time, this can have a negative impact on our bodies, both physically and mentally.

By observing how we react to situations, we can recognise signs and feelings associated with stress and explore ways to manage these feelings and look after ourselves. It is important to make time for ourselves and prioritise self-care as healthy ways to manage stress. This could be reading a book, going for a walk in nature, taking part in a team sport or hobby, playing an instrument or listening to music. Additional approaches to managing stress include reducing stressors, reviewing workload and resources and seeking support when needed, whether confiding in a trusted friend or family member or reaching out to a GP or mental health consultant.

Further information on stress and management tips can be found online:

https://mentalhealth-uk.org/help-and-information/stress/

https://www.stress.org.uk/sam2024/

https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/tips-to-reduce-stress/

Imagery Credit: International Stress Management Association UK

Credit: jmcare Group