Stress Awareness Month has been held every April since 1992 to raise awareness of the causes and cures for our modern stress epidemic. This year our theme is Community because lack of support can cause loneliness and isolation, which in turn lowers people's wellbeing, impacts mental health and can lead to mental illness. Social isolation is an important risk factor for both deteriorating mental health and suicide. As we emerge from the pandemic, it's vital that the community support experienced by many people during this challenging time continues. Although restrictions have mainly been lifted, people need support now more than ever as they adjust to a new way of living.
The pandemic has had a hugely detrimental effect on the nation's mental health and sense of community. Disrupted social lives, the cancellation of large gatherings, travel restrictions and working from home have kept us in one place for long periods of time. However, one of the positives to emerge from this unparalleled situation has been the community spirit and support shown by so many to so many.
Community
A community is much more than just a group of people. It's about having a sense of belonging and connection to others and feel supported and accepted by them. Relationships are one of the most important aspects of our lives. People who are more socially connected to family, friends, or their community are happier, physically healthier and live longer, with fewer mental health problems than people who are less well connected. People in neighbourhoods with higher levels of social cohesion experience lower rates of mental health problems than those in neighbourhoods with lower cohesion, regardless of how deprived or affluent a neighbourhood is.
Conversely, a lack of community support can result in feelings of social isolation and loneliness. Feeling lonely has a negative impact on mental health, particularly when these feelings are longstanding, and research suggests that it is associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, sleep problems and increased stress.
We'll be posting regularly throughout the month so keep an eye on our socials!
The 30 Day Challenge
'The 30 Day Challenge' encourages you to pick one action each for your Physical, Mental and Emotional Wellbeing to carry out every day. Try and add actions for your social and spiritual wellness too.
Head over to https://www.stress.org.uk/30daychallenge/ for more details.