Stress awareness month

April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to recognise the impact stress can have on our mental health and wellbeing—especially for children and young people navigating school, friendships, family life, and the wider world.

Stress is normal and will happen throughout our lives. We may experience stress for a variety of different reasons. Stress is sometimes ADVANTAGEOUS. It might inspire us to solve problems or complete tasks. Sometimes though, tension can build up or a long period of stress can affect us, leaving us feeling helpless to handle it.

This is the time to think about the effects stress is having on our body and mind. It is important to make time for yourself to feel less stressed and more relaxed.

Stress is the body’s natural response to feeling under pressure. It can show up in different ways, such as

Helpful techniques - Here are some simple, practical strategies to to manage stress.

1. Talk to Someone - Sharing how you feel with a trusted adult or friend can make a big difference. You don’t have to deal with stress alone.

2. Take Small Breaks -Give your mind time to rest. Step away from homework or screens and do something relaxing, even for 10–15 minutes.

3. Stay Active -Physical activity—like walking, dancing, or playing sports—can boost mood and reduce stress.

4. Focus on What You Can Control - When things feel overwhelming, break tasks into smaller steps and focus on one thing at a time.

5. Practice Calm Breathing - Slow breathing can help your body relax. Try breathing in for 4 seconds, holding for 4, and out for 6.

6. Keep a Routine - Regular sleep, meals, and daily structure can help you feel more in control.

Stress bucket - 

We all experience stress to some degree. But too much stress can make us feel overwhelmed. The stress bucket is a way to visualise this.

Imagine there’s a bucket you carry with you which slowly fills up when you experience different types of stress.

Sometimes you feel strong enough to carry a lot of stress, but it’s important to find activities which help you lighten the load.

You can release the stress by doing things you enjoy - Turn on the tap!

These resources can be found by clicking on the links below;

Stress Bucket Activity | Mental Health Resources | YoungMinds

The stress bucket - Mental Health UK

If stress is becoming difficult to manage, support is available:

• Sunderland Mental Health Support Teams (MHST) Working with schools to support children and young people. Speak to your school to access support.
   
• SCCYPMHS - Provides mental health support. Referrals can be made through professionals such as GPs or schools.
   
• Kooth (www.kooth.com) Free, safe, and anonymous online support for young people aged 11+. 
   
• Young Minds (www.youngminds.org.uk) Offers advice and resources for young people and parents.
   
• NHS 111 - For urgent mental health support when you’re not sure what to do.
   
• Shout (Text “SHOUT” to 85258) A free, confidential 24/7 text support service for anyone struggling to cope.