Stress Awareness Month takes place every April, shining a light on one of the most common reasons people seek mental health support. Simon Kingsman, Team Manager at our Exeter Devon Moorings service, shares his perspective on how stress affects the people we work with, and what can genuinely help.

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"As a service, we often support people who are experiencing stress, sometimes as the main reason for seeking support and other times as something that sits alongside other challenges they are facing in their lives.

Stress can have a significant impact on peoples wellbeing, particularly when pressures feel constant or overwhelming. Many people find that stress is heightened by the fast paced and demanding nature of modern life, whether that relates to work, relationships, finances, health issues or caring responsibilities. One thing that appears to be very helpful for many of the people we support is simply having the opportunity to talk openly abut what may be putting pressure on them. Putting things into words can help people gain perspective and feel less alone and less frustrated.

By talking things through, we can help people identify practical steps or small changes that can ease some of the pressure they are experiencing. For some this can involve looking at how they organise their time, setting realistic boundaries or making sure they make time for rest and recovery. Other people benefit from learning new ways of coping with stress, such as breathing exercises, grounding techniques or simply reminding to schedule in regular breaks. For most, having someone listen to them in a calm, non-judgmental and supportive way can in itself reduces those feelings of stress.

Whatever the outcome, support often begins with opening up and sharing what is causing feelings of pressure or overwhelm. It is so important that people feel heard and understood and realise that how they are feeling is valid. Talking about stress often helps to find clarity, regain a sense of control and discover coping strategies that they may not have considered before."

Support is available

If stress is affecting your day-to-day life, you do not have to manage it alone. Talking to someone is often the first and most important step, and support is available.

You can explore mental health support in your area at Hub of Hope, or find out more about the services we offer at Mental Health Matters.