Stress Awareness Month

April is recognised globally as Stress Awareness Month. An important time dedicated to raising awareness about the causes and consequences of stress.

As stress continues to be a prevalent issue affecting people of all ages and backgrounds, this month serves as a vital opportunity to engage in conversations about mental health and well-being.

Understanding Stress and Its Impact

Anxiety is a natural response to challenging or threatening situations. While a certain level of stress can be beneficial, motivating individuals to take action, chronic distress can have severe effects on both physical and mental health. It can lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression, heart disease, and a weakened immune system.

Universal Care Services: Promoting Stress Awareness

Universal Care Services is committed to supporting Stress Awareness Month by providing resources and services to help individuals manage and alleviate stress. Here’s how we are making a difference:

Employee assistance programme:

Understanding that distress affects everyone differently, Universal Care Services offers anonymous counselling through our employee assistance programme TELUS. The experienced counsellors work with individuals to identify stressors and develop effective coping strategies. This personalised approach ensures that each person receives the support they need to improve their mental health and well-being.

Tips for Overcoming Stress

Managing duress is crucial for maintaining good mental and physical health. Here are some practical tips to help you overcome stress:

1. Recognise Your Triggers: Identify what causes your stress so you can manage or avoid those situations more effectively.
2. Practice Relaxation: Use deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
3. Stay Active and Rested: Exercise regularly and aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep to support your mental and physical health.
4. Connect and Communicate: Talk to friends, family, or support groups—social connection is key to emotional resilience.
5. Adopt Healthy Habits: Limit caffeine and sugar, set realistic goals, and find positive coping strategies like reading or creative hobbies.

Taking Action

Stress Awareness Month is an important reminder of the impact worry can have on our lives. It is a call to action for individuals and organisations alike to prioritise mental health and well-being. Universal Care Services remains dedicated to offering support and resources to help people lead healthier, happier lives. We encourage everyone to take advantage of these opportunities to learn more about managing burnout and improving overall wellness.

As we navigate the challenges of daily life, let’s remember the importance of acknowledging and addressing distress. By doing so, we can create a healthier, more resilient community.