Herefordshire & Worcestershire NHS issue stress management tips

Throughout April, NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire has said it wants to highlight the importance of self-care in managing stress.

The theme for 2025’s Stress Awareness Month is ‘lead with love’, promoting kindness to oneself and others.

Stress is a common response when dealing with life challenges or changes such as financial worries, work problems, or relationship issues, as it is the body’s reaction to feeling threatened or pressured.

While some stress can be beneficial, motivating us to complete tasks or concentrate, prolonged or severe stress can lead to physical, mental, and emotional burnout.

Physical symptoms may include dizziness, stomach issues, headaches, or skin rashes.

Mentally, stress may manifest as feelings of anger, worry, or being overwhelmed.

Stress can also lead to behavioural changes, such as irritability, altered eating or sleeping patterns, or difficulty in decision-making.

Dr Will Taylor, the medical director for NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: “Health professionals aren’t just here to help with physical ailments; we’re here for your mental wellbeing, too.

“Most people feel stressed at some point, so you really aren’t alone.”

There are numerous strategies to manage stress, whether from work, financial, or relationship problems.

Talking to a trusted friend or family member, getting more exercise, practising breathing exercises, or using time management techniques may be beneficial.

Breaking large tasks into smaller chunks can also make life more manageable.

Dr Taylor added: “It’s important to speak to someone if you are feeling anxious, whether that’s a friend, family member, or a colleague.

“There are plenty of things you can do to relieve tension, such as getting more exercise, planning ahead when you have a busy day or week, or trying self-help techniques.”

For those who find these initial strategies ineffective, it is important to reach out to NHS 111 or a healthcare professional such as a GP.

In Herefordshire and Worcestershire, individuals can refer themselves to NHS Talking Therapies for free, without needing to see a GP.

There are also specialist organisations like the Samaritans that can provide advice and support.

Dr Taylor further advised: “If you find that you are having prolonged feelings of stress and anxiety (more than five days), then talk to your GP, who can give you guidance on how to help manage and alleviate your symptoms.”