National Stress Awareness Month

Image contains text which reads April Stress Awareness Month

April is recognized as National Stress Awareness Month to bring attention to the negative impact of stress. Managing stress is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Knowing how to manage stress can improve mental and physical well-being as well as minimize exacerbation of health-related issues.

It’s critical to recognize what stress and anxiety look like, take steps to build resilience, and know where to go for help. The Mental Health American (MHA) provides some tips on how to reduce your stress by utilizing a Stress Screener. Also, take some time to visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and familiarize yourself with strategies for stress management.

NIH also offers several resources that can assist managers and employees in dealing with stress and anxiety, including the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and the Office of the Ombudsman. While EAP focuses on confidential counseling and enhancing and maintaining the well-being of all employees, the Office of the Ombudsman provides confidential, informal services related to coaching, facilitation, and mediation. Contact information for both services can be found in the above links.

Please see the additional resources available to effectively cope with stress: