April is Stress Awareness Month and despite this running for 20 years there’s still a long way to go. According to the Mental health Foundation 74% of UK adults have felt so stressed at some point over the last year they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope.
Stress is one of the great public health challenges, but it still isn’t being taken as seriously as physical health concerns. Stress is a significant factor in mental health problems including anxiety and depression. It is also linked to physical health problems like heart disease, problems with our immune system, insomnia and digestive problems.
Our team have highlighted their top tips for managing stress:
David
“I like to go out for a run. After a stressful day, a run in the fresh air without the kids and listening to my music really helps me de stress. Regardless of how slow I go, I instantly feel more relaxed and calmer afterwards.”
Ruth
“Make sure you recognise and talk to those around you when you're stressed or worried, this can help you reflect on your situation and work though it without isolating yourself. It’s important to realise that it’s “It’s OK to not be OK”. Osteopaths are also good listeners!”
George
“When you start to feel stressed, take deep breathes in and out, making sure the abdomen expands on inhalation. This triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, which in turn educes our physical response to stress.”
Hannah
“A tidy house (or desk space) can encourage a tidy mind. Keeping your desk space or wherever you spend most of your time tidy and clutter-free can make such a difference to your stress and anxiety levels.”
Emma
“If you have the option to walk/cycle to and from work, try it. Even replacing a small part of your journey with exercise, gives you breathing space before and after work (especially those who commute via public transport)”
Chris
"Don’t be in denial. Be positive and address your stress and anxiety head on. Avoid putting the unpaid bill under the carpet. Seek help and talk to somebody before it escalates. Help is the key and it’s so important to share your burden."
Sam
“If stress is keeping you awake, leave a pad by your bed and try writing your stressors down. Sometimes physically writing them down can instantly help lift that trigger from your mind.
Lewis
“Manage your time more efficiently and always make sure you plan in time for doing things YOU love. It’s so important to invest in you.”