April is Stress Awareness Month

Stress Awareness Month has been held every April since 1992 to raise awareness of the causes and cures for our modern stress epidemic.  The last two years have been the most challenging we have faced and in 2020 services were overwhelmed by people that were struggling and seeking support.   This year the theme is Community.  This theme was chosen because lack of support can cause loneliness and isolation, which in turn lowers people’s wellbeing, impacts mental health and can lead to mental illness. Although restrictions have mainly been lifted, people need support now more than ever as they adjust to a new way of living.

The pandemic has had a hugely detrimental effect on the nation’s mental health and sense of community.  Disrupted social lives, the cancellation of large gatherings, travel restrictions and working from home have kept us in one place for long periods of time. However, one of the positives to emerge from this unparalleled situation has been the community spirit and support shown by so many to so many.

 

Community

One of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing is ‘connect’.  Connecting with people around us is so important as it can help us to feel valued and give us a sense of belonging.  Being part of a community helps us to feel supported and accepted, and research shows that people with strong social connections lead happier lives.

A lack of connection can lead to social isolation and loneliness, which can negatively impact our mental health.

 

Ideas to promote social connection at work:

Café Connect – All members of staff are welcome – please contact Staff Wellbeing to book a place.  The theme for the next session is Relating (connecting with people).  We will share some information around this theme and then the rest of the session is free for you to simply chat and connect with colleagues.  See the Upcoming Sessions tab on the Wellbeing web pages for dates and times.

Stress Management Society 30 Day Challenge – there are resources available to encourage you to do something for your Physical, Mental and Emotional Wellbeing every day in April.  Research has shown that it takes 30 days to turn actions into habits – could April be the month you create those healthy habits for life?  Contact Staff Wellbeing if you would like a copy of the 30-Day Challenge resources, or visit the Wellbeing web page for stress and go to the ‘Stress Awareness Month 2022’ tab.  Maybe you could join the Staff Wellbeing Teams group and share your Challenge with others