Stress Awareness Month has been held every April since 1992.

The purpose of having such a month is to raise awareness of the causes and possible cures for such a burden on our mental health.

Now, let’s face it, it appears that stress is affecting more and more people. We’ve had to endure a couple of sure-fire stress years – and sadly 2022 is shaping up to be no different, with the cost of living crisis moving in to give Covid-19 a run for its money as the number one stress factor!

Our emotional and financial wellbeing certainly appears to be getting hit from all sides!

In these turbulent times, many companies and individuals are either wrestling with mental health issues, or are worried about the mental welfare of their family, friends or work colleagues.

Stress Awareness Month provides a platform for stress and mental health problems to be highlighted. Topics may include:

• Experiences people have with mental health challenges and what can be done to help them
• How employers are responding to mental health issues and what can be learnt
• Campaigning against the stigma associated with stress and mental health issues
• The role of stress management professionals in alleviating stress, with practical and proven techniques for building resilience
• What further actions need to be taken in the light of the pandemic and possible changes in future working practices
• Ensuring that those suffering from stress know where to go to seek advice

Here at Lifetime we would encourage everyone who is suffering from stress and anxiety to talk to someone who may be able to help them in someway.

As well as the cost of living crisis, stress, anxiety and depression are prevalent for all kinds of other reasons too, including potential job losses and other financial concerns.

And this is where a conversation with a professional is crucial. It could lead to help, guidance and advice that may play a key part in alleviating your worries.

Research by Royal London backs up our belief. Their survey duly confirmed that interaction with a professional financial adviser, and the receiving of quality advice, can deliver more than just the financial benefits but can also help people feel better about their personal money matters, and also about themselves.

For many, financial worries directly impact their daily life, with stress causing a lack of sleep and potentially other mental or physical health problems. Job losses are one major area of concern, but worry over finances can also lead to poor levels of engagement and concentration at work, low productivity levels, and higher rates of absenteeism.

You may ask just what are the benefits of seeking financial guidance? Well, one of the chief benefits could well be that you end up feeling far less stressed about your money!

People often seek financial guidance and financial advice because of a specific issue, but right at the heart of that need is one overriding thing: peace of mind.

If you are stressed about your financial situation, and you need guidance and support, talk to us! Get in touch (telephone 01226 208700; email [email protected]) – and we may be able to help ease your concerns.

Here too is a link to the Headspace website which may be of some help if you are feeling stressed, with their mantra of ‘Be kind to your mind. Less stressed. More resilient. Happier. It all starts with just a few minutes a day.’

Look after yourselves.