Stress is very common, and it can affect any of us. It can build up quietly, from pressures at work, at home, or both. Some people find stress helpful or even motivating. But if stress is affecting your life, it isn't a sign that you're not coping well enough, it's a sign that you're human.
This year's theme, set by the International Stress Management Association (ISMAUK), is "Shaping the Future of Stress and Wellbeing: Rehumanising the Workplace". It's a reminder that small moments of connection can make a real difference.
This week and every week, we're encouraging everyone to:
- check in with the people around you, and ask how they are really doing
- take your breaks, even for ten minutes
- get some fresh air, or go for a walk
- be kind to yourself and to each other when things get busy
- reach out if things start to feel like too much
Tanya Carter, Chief People Officer, said:
"Many are feeling real pressure right now, from the rising cost of living and high housing costs to stress and burnout, and other life challenges, often all at once."
"If you're struggling, please reach out. Our Talking Therapies services also welcome and encourage self-referral."
Asking for help is a positive step, and you don't need to wait until things feel unmanageable. Talk to someone you trust, a friend, a family member or your GP, and remember that free, confidential NHS support is available:
- NHS Talking Therapies. Free help with common problems like stress, anxiety and depression. You don't need to see a GP first, you can self-refer. ELFT runs Talking Therapies services for adults aged 18 and over in Bedfordshire (01234 880400, elft.nhs.uk/bedfordshire-talking-therapies), Newham (020 8175 1770, elft.nhs.uk/newham-talking-therapies) and Tower Hamlets (020 8175 1770, elft.nhs.uk/tower-hamlets-talking-therapies).
- Anywhere else in England. Find your local NHS Talking Therapies service and refer yourself at nhs.uk. You don't need a diagnosis to refer yourself. If you're not sure talking therapies are right for you, speak to your GP.
If you need to talk to someone right now:
- Call NHS 111 and select option 2 to be put through to a mental health service. It's available 24 hours a day.
- Samaritans: call 116 123, free, any time, day or night.
- Shout: text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential support, 24/7.
- If there is an immediate risk to life, call 999 or go to A&E.
For more ways to get help, see Get help in an emergency on the ELFT website.
Please look after yourselves this week, and every week.