Prioritise mental well-being and encourage resilience across all ages

The National Stress Awareness Day aims to encourage people to recognise the sources of their stress and to seek effective coping strategies. By bringing stress into focus, this day aims to reduce the stigma associated with stress-related challenges and promote open discussions on mental health and well-being. It also encourages employers to create healthier work environments, which can significantly reduce stress among employees, thereby fostering more positive workplaces.

Speaking about the current trends of stress awareness, Ms Ria Sharma, PGT Psychology and school counsellor, Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg shared, “As a school counsellor, I observe that stress has become a widespread issue across age groups due to our fast-paced lifestyles, digital overload, and the pressure to meet high standards. With students, stress often arises from academic pressure, social comparisons on social media, and fear of failure. For adults, it’s the struggle of balancing work demands with personal responsibilities, leading to chronic stress that impacts mental and physical health,” the educator said.

Recent trends show that constant connectivity — through smartphones and social media—exacerbates stress by not allowing individuals to mentally disconnect, she shared and added, “We’re constantly comparing ourselves to others, whether in academics, careers, or lifestyle, leading to feelings of inadequacy.”

Applications of Stress Management Techniques

Ms Ria explained a few stress management strategies that have evolved over the years, with a greater emphasis on accessible and holistic methods.

“To curb stress effectively, we need age-specific strategies. For students, creating a balanced routine that includes time for hobbies, exercise, and relaxation is essential. Schools can support students by promoting open discussions on mental health and teaching stress management techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing. Adults, too, benefit from regular physical activity, setting clear work-life boundaries, and making time for meaningful social connections,” she pointed out.

 A few effective applications to keep stress levels under control are:

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness helps individuals stay grounded and focus on the present, reducing anxiety over future or past events.

Exercise and Physical Activity: Regular exercise releases endorphins, which improve mood and help relieve stress.

Healthy Work-Life Balance: Setting boundaries and prioritizing personal time help maintain mental well-being and prevent burnout.

Counselling and Therapy: Professional support through therapy can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing stress, and improving coping mechanisms.