National Stress Awareness Day 2023

National Stress Awareness Day 2023: Understanding and managing stress in the UK

National Stress Awareness Day, observed annually on the first Wednesday of November, serves as a vital platform for raising awareness about the impact of stress on our lives. This day, established by the International Stress Management Association (ISMA), is dedicated to shining a spotlight on stress, its effects on our physical and mental health, and strategies for managing it effectively.

In 2023, this national observance continues its mission to demystify stress, reduce the stigma associated with it in the workplace, and empower individuals with knowledge and resources. In this blog, we delve into the theme for the year, explore key definitions, share crucial facts and statistics, and provide actionable tips to help you navigate stress.

National Stress Awareness Day theme for 2023

National Stress Awareness Day 2023 revolves around understanding how stress affects our lives and the proactive measures we can take to manage it. It includes a comprehensive programme of international seminars, summits, interactive chats, and events, all aimed at providing access to expert advice and encouraging organisations to initiate their events to foster a supportive environment.

Understanding stress

Stress is the body’s natural response to challenges, pressures, or threats. While it is a common part of daily life, excessive or prolonged stress can lead to various physical and mental health issues.

Rethink Mental Illness, a prominent UK-based mental health charity, emphasises the importance of gaining a clear and data-driven understanding of stress to mitigate its negative impacts.

Key facts and statistics

• Work-related stress - 79% of individuals frequently experience work-related stress (Statistica).
• Daily stress - 7% of UK adults feel stressed every single day (CIPHR).
• Age differences - 30% of older people reported never feeling overwhelmed due to stress, compared to just 7% of young adults (Mental Health Foundation and YouGov).
• Overwhelmed feelings - 74% of people have felt so stressed they were overwhelmed or unable to cope (Mental Health Foundation and YouGov).
• Healthcare costs - Stress-related illnesses cost the UK around £8.13 billion in inpatient hospital admissions (Statistica).
• Relationships - 1 in 3 cite relationships as an external stressor (The Workplace Health Report).

Impact on work and employees

Work is a significant source of stress for many, with employee stress statistics highlighting the need for attention and intervention:

• 13.7 million working days are lost annually in the UK due to work-related stress, costing £28.3 billion (NICE).
• 76% of employees report moderate-to-high or high stress levels (The Workplace Health Report).
• Workload is the top cause of work-related stress, reported by 73% of employees (The Workplace Health Report).

Managing stress

Identifying signs of stress and adopting effective stress management strategies is crucial. PAPYRUS, a UK charity focused on the prevention of young suicide, provides valuable insights:

• Recognising signs - Be aware of changes in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviour.
• Seeking support - Talk to trusted friends, family, or professionals.
• Engaging in self-care - Prioritise activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Key points to remember

Here are the key points to remember from this article:

• Stress is a common but manageable aspect of life.
• Recognising the signs of stress and seeking support is crucial.
• Engaging in self-care and relaxation is essential for managing stress.

Conclusion

National Stress Awareness Day 2023 serves as a critical reminder of the pervasive nature of stress and the imperative to take proactive steps towards managing it. By understanding stress, recognising its signs, and adopting effective management strategies, we can mitigate its impacts and foster a healthier, more resilient society.

For more information and resources on stress management, visit the websites of Rethink Mental Illness, HealthWatch, PAPYRUS, and the International Stress Management Association.

Click here to see our wide range of accredited stress management online courses and training programmes.

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