Stress Awareness

April is designated as National Stress Awareness Month in 2026, aiming to increase awareness
about the causes and cures for modern stress. It focuses on promoting mental health,
encouraging healthier lifestyles, and providing practical management techniques to reduce the
physical and emotional impacts of chronic stress. The following are some key focus areas for
April.

− Highlighting the link between stress and mental health conditions like depression and
anxiety.
− Encouraging small, consistent changes such as 10-minute walks, mindfulness practices,
and improving sleep habits.
− Combating digital fatigue by promoting analog hobbies like knitting, painting, or
gardening that encourage brain activity and promote the flow of positive endorphins.
− Utilizing resources to foster open conversations and, if necessary, seeking help from
professionals.

Asking for help with stress involves being direct, specific, and prepared, such as saying, “I’m
feeling overwhelmed and need help prioritizing my workload.” Reach out to trusted friends,
family, or professionals by scheduling a calm time to talk, and consider using text or email if
talking in person is too difficult. The following are some steps you can take to ask for help.

− Clearly state what you need, such as “I need to talk to someone about my anxiety.”
− Initiate a conversation by saying, “I’d like to talk about something personal, when is a
good time?”
− Select a low-stress moment, avoiding times when the other person is busy or tired.
− Prepare notes or specific goals beforehand to help guide the conversation, as noted by
the NIMH.
− If speaking in person is too overwhelming, use text, email, or a voice note.

Reach out to friends or family members who are supportive, using direct communication about
your needs. If you’re at work or school, contact a manager, HR department, or school counselor
to discuss workload adjustments. For professional help, seek a therapist, counselor, or check
with local community health centers. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide
& Crisis Lifeline or SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

Don’t downplay your stress, but be honest about your situation, advises Johns Hopkins
Medicine. Remind yourself that asking for help is a sign of strength and a necessary life practice,

not a weakness, according to Psychology Today. Everyone deserves the chance to pursue a
better quality of life.

For questions or to make an appointment, write to us on our website anytime or call us at (585)
442-6960.