April is Stress Awareness Month and the campaign this year is #bethechange.
April is Stress Awareness Month and the campaign this year is #bethechange.
The idea is to implement small changes that can have a bigger impact on overall stress levels and how we manage stress. Below are 5 simple ideas shared by www.stress.org.uk that you can use to help gradually reduce stress.
1. Build a Daily Stress-Reduction Habit: Choose one simple action to reduce stress, such as taking a short walk, pausing before meetings, or setting boundaries. Practice it consistently each day for 30 days. Track your progress to notice how this habit improves your energy, focus, and wellbeing. Pick what fits best with your schedule and needs.
2. Reframe One Limiting Thought Daily: Identify one thought that may be holding you back (for example, “I can’t handle this task”) and turn it into a positive, actionable statement (for example, “I can take this step by step”). Practice this once per day for 30 days and reflect on the impact of thinking more constructively.
3. Establish three Wellbeing Micro-Habits: Choose three small, achievable habits to support your wellbeing, such as: 5-minute movement breaks, Short reflection moments, Quick breathing or mindfulness check-ins. Practice all three consistently during your workday for 30 days. Track completion daily to notice improvements in your focus, energy, and stress levels.
4. Connect Meaningfully with Others Weekly: Commit to one intentional connection each week for four weeks, such as: Checking in with a friend or colleague, Having a meaningful conversation, Collaborating or helping someone. Reflect on how these connections make you feel supported, reduce stress, and build a sense of community.
5. Practice Presence in Daily Moments: Bring mindful awareness into at least three moments each day for 30 days, such as during meetings, breaks, or transitions between tasks. Observe your thoughts, emotions, and reactions, and note any changes in how you handle stress.
Become a Signatory of the MIMHC:
The MIMHC is geared towards helping companies in the Mortgage industry to provide mental health support to their staff. This very important issue within the sector requires that firms look to improve provisions for their people and signing up to the Charter is a great way to start!
