International Stress Awareness Week

It’s International Stress Awareness Week, here at ORS we wanted to share a little reminder of the importance of taking care of your wellbeing, and some tips on how to manage daily stresses.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay 

Stress is unavoidable in daily life, so it’s crucial that we build and develop our emotional resilience. This can help us to become better at coping with stressful situations, prepare us to be less worried in the future, and enable us to reduce the impact that stressful situations have on our lives.

We all say the words “I’m so stressed” but what can we do about it?

How to Stress Less?

1. Time – Learn to manage your time effectively. Prioritise your day and don’t leave unpleasant tasks till the end.
2. Connect – Reach out to your social circle, contact an old friend or speak with colleagues to help deal with pressures.
3.  Mindset – Try to see your situation from a different point of view. Develop a positive style of thinking.
4.  Relax – Relaxation, breathing & mediation exercises have been proven to be effective in reducing stress.
5.  Avoid vices – Long term coping mechanisms such as alcohol, nicotine and caffeine will just add to the problem, increasing further stress. 
6. Self-Care – Dedicate time to yourself and do things that make you happy. Learn to appreciate the good things in life.
7. Outdoors – Taking a breather or getting active and soaking up the fresh air, this will help to reduce emotional tensions.
8.  Help others – Doing things for others can have a profound effect on our own wellbeing. Be kind and spread kindness.

If you are unable to share how you are feeling with someone you know, Samaritans are open 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk on 116 123 (free from all phones). For those experiencing prolonged chronic stress, there is a range of treatments available through the NHS. Contact your GP if you are struggling. It is important to look after your well-being and to check in with those around you.

Click here for more information, advice, and resources for International Stress Awareness Week.