Supporting Those Who Care for Others: Stress Awareness Month 2025
- We Change Lives
- Apr 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 9
April is Stress Awareness Month - a time to recognise the impact of stress and find ways to manage it. At We Changes Lives (WCL), we know that carers, caregivers, and care professionals give so much of themselves to support others. But too often, their own wellbeing takes a backseat.
This month, we’re focusing on practical ways to manage stress and reminding those who care for others that their wellbeing matters too.
Understanding Stress
Rethink Mental Illness defines stress as the feeling of being under too much mental or emotional pressure. When we’re stressed, our bodies release hormones like adrenaline and cortisol – a completely natural reaction designed to help us respond to challenges. In small doses, stress can be motivating, but when it lingers for too long or becomes overwhelming, it can take a serious toll on both our mental and physical health.
For those in caring roles, stress can stem from many places:
Emotional strain – Being there for others, over time, can take a toll on your emotions. It’s natural to feel the weight of the care you provide.
Mental & physical exhaustion – The long hours and physical demands of caring can leave you feeling drained, both mentally and physically.
Lack of downtime – When you’re always putting others first, finding even a moment for yourself can feel daunting or like an afterthought.
Pressure to always be strong – You want to be a source of strength for those you support, but that doesn’t mean your own struggles don’t matter.
Recognising these stressors is the first step in managing them before they become overwhelming.
5 Ways to Manage Stress
Caring for others is important – but so is caring for yourself. Here are five simple ways to help manage stress:
1️⃣ Acknowledge your stress: It’s okay to feel stressed! It’s normal, but that doesn’t mean it should be commonplace. Recognising the signs allows you to take steps to manage it.
2️⃣ Set boundaries: Saying ‘no’ isn’t selfish. Protecting your time and energy helps you give your best to others.
3️⃣ Take small moments for yourself: Even five minutes of fresh air, deep breathing, or listening to your favourite song can help rest your mind.
4️⃣ Talk about it: You're not alone. Chatting with a friend, colleague, or support group can make a big difference.
5️⃣ Seek support: If stress is affecting your wellbeing, professional support can help.
Supporting Our Team at WCL
At We Change Lives, we believe in looking after our team as much as we do the people we support. Here’s how we’re honouring that commitment:
💙 Wellbeing Support – From mental health resources to 24/7 GP access, we ensure our team has the support they need, when they need it.
💙 Training & Development – We offer ongoing training, qualifications, and mentorship, helping our team grow their confidence and skills.
💙 Health & Happiness – Initiatives like CycleScheme promote overall wellbeing because a happy, healthy team delivers the best care.
Want to see how else we’re supporting our team? Read our Ethical Care Commitment here.
How to Get Involved This Stress Awareness Month
Caring for others is an incredible gift – but it shouldn’t come at the cost of your own wellbeing. This April, let’s make time to talk about stress and prioritising self-care.
💬 Join the conversation:
🔹 Share your experiences. What helps you manage stress? Tag us and use #WeChangeLives to share your tips.
🔹 Check in on a colleague or friend. A simple ‘How are you doing?’ can mean the world to someone feeling stressed.
🔹 Prioritise yourself. Make one small commitment to your wellbeing. Whether it’s a daily walk, making time for your hobbies, learning a new recipe, or just taking five minutes to breathe – small changes can have a big impact.
At We Change Lives, we’re always here to support you 💙
📌 For more resources on stress management, visit:
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