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Stress Awareness Month: History and 5 ways to cope with daily tension

Know effective ways to cope with hurdles during Stress Awareness Month

Stress and poor mental health are one of the biggest public health challenges that we’re facing. April is celebrated as National Stress Awareness Month with the goal of raising awareness on the impacts of stress.

When you have fewer stressors, you have increased emotional stability, better moods and overall superior health. This month is a time to pay special attention to how you can remain stress-free throughout your day. 

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Origin of Stress Awareness Month

Stress Awareness Month has been held every April since 1992 to raise awareness of the causes and cures for our modern-day stress epidemic. It is the time when we have an opportunity for an open conversation on the impact of stress. The month is also dedicated to removing the guilt, shame, and stigma around mental health. A user wrote on Twitter, "Stress Awareness Month runs from 1st-30th of April 2023. Look at the infographics to see some tips from a student dietitian on how to manage stress during placement as an AHP student. #StressAwarenessMonth".

5 effective steps to curb your stress

Effective stress management helps break the hold stress has on our life. It helps us feel happier, healthier, and more productive. 

1. Practice meditation

One of the most effective ways to deal with stress is to learn how to silence the mind. Meditation is one of the most popular methods of achieving this.

2. Exercise

Another way to battle the debilitating effects of stress is to exercise. Whether you're a jogger, bicyclist our just like to take long walks, be sure to get some fresh air and exercise into your daily routine. A user wrote, "The best advice I can give you for having a good year is to get outside and walk. It’s great for your heart, your stress, your views on life. Morning, noon or night and it’s free. Walk it out. Let it go. It will do you the world of good, I promise."

3. Get enough sleep and eat nutritious food                                                                                                                                                  Lack of sleep can increase stress levels, so make sure you get enough restful sleep each night. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet can help support your physical and mental health and reduce stress.

4. Prioritize 

To prevent feeling overloaded, learn to prioritise your chores and assign duties when you can. By enabling you to better organise and manage your day, effective time management can help you feel less stressed.

5. Connect with others                                                                                                                                                                                    Social support can help reduce stress, so make time to connect with friends and loved ones.