Talk about stress (awareness month)

A change, as they say, is as good as a rest but let’s face it, this is probably not entirely the case for most of us.

Think cozy morning lie ins on days off, lazy afternoons in front of the TV or a nice long soak with a glass or two of your favourite tipple.

Spring may already be upon us, and so too are warmer days and longer nights, but, after a succession of long, cold months (not to mention yet more restrictions) it can be natural to still be feeling more winter worn than a little ray of sunshine.

According to healthcare provider, Lifespan, it is fairly common to still experience lower emotional states as anxiety and depression reach high points in April.*

It is also common for change, in this case the change of weather, to trigger feelings of unrest and unease,* meaning that even without feeling low, many of us may still experience burn out and a feeling of stress.

During Stress Awareness month this April, organisations like the Stress Management Society and the NHS are raising awareness about the impact of stress and encouraging action that can lead to positive changes.

Advice includes talking about stress, sharing coping mechanisms with others and last but certainly not least, taking the time to look after yourself.**

This could be anything from eating well and exercising to taking the time out to relax – something that the Stress Management Society believe is crucial to our overall health and mental wellbeing.

Whether this is reading a book, catching up with friends, listening to music or tuning in to your favourite new podcast.

So, enjoy those weekends relaxing and?precious moments to yourself, after all change is rarely ever quite as good as a rest.

For more guidance around how you can improve workplace wellbeing read one of our latest articles, 'Top Tips for avoiding burnout'.

*https://www.lifespan.org/lifespan-living/how-to-beat-spring-blues **https://www.stress.org.uk/national-stress-awarness-month/