April marks Stress Awareness Month, an opportunity to highlight the importance of recognising stress, understanding its impact, and taking practical steps to manage it.
NHS Lanarkshire is committed to supporting staff wellbeing by providing valuable resources and guidance on managing stress effectively.
Stress is a natural reaction to pressure and challenging situations. While short-term stress can help motivate us, ongoing or excessive stress can lead to physical and emotional health issues, including anxiety, sleep problems, and decreased overall wellbeing.
Lesley Mackay, staff health and wellbeing project manager, said: “At NHS Lanarkshire, we recognise the vital role that mental wellbeing plays in our lives and the direct impact it has on our ability to provide exceptional patient care. Supporting staff to manage stress effectively through accessible resources and open dialogue remains a priority, particularly given the increasing pressures within healthcare environments.
“Our commitment is to foster a supportive culture where staff feel empowered to discuss their challenges openly and seek assistance without hesitation. I encourage everyone to proactively utilise the available support, embrace healthy coping strategies, and regularly check in with colleagues, thereby maintaining a healthy balance and enhancing overall workplace wellbeing.”
NHS Lanarkshire provides several services tailored to support staff needs. Lanarkshire Mind Matters offers a dedicated platform with self-help tools, guided programmes, and access to psychological therapies—more details can be found at Lanarkshire Mind Matters.
Additionally, the Occupational Health and Staff Care Services deliver confidential support and guidance for managing work-related stress and overall health, further information is accessible via our Staff Mental Health Support Page. elament is also available, serving as a resource hub for mental health information, wellbeing strategies, and local services. Lastly, the Living Life Service provides free, telephone-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and guided self-help for individuals experiencing low mood, mild depression, or anxiety.
Tips for Managing Stress Effectively:
- Stay active through regular exercise or physical activities like walking or yoga.
- Connect with colleagues, family, and friends to maintain strong social support.
- Practise relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or meditation.
- Prioritise and break tasks down into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Allocate regular time for activities you enjoy to recharge and refresh.
Recognising stress and proactively managing it can significantly enhance your wellbeing. We encourage all staff to explore the extensive resources available on our Staff Health and Wellbeing Hub at Staff Support and Wellbeing for additional support and guidance.
