Ten Ways to Manage Stress During National Stress Awareness Week

As Ireland marks National Stress Awareness Day today (5 November 2025), Cork mental health charity Turn2Me is urging people to take practical steps to protect their wellbeing during what is often the most stressful day of the working week.

With increasing pressures from work, finances and daily life, stress levels continue to rise across the country. Turn2Me.ie is offering up to six free one-to-one counselling sessions to anyone in Ireland over 18 through its online platform, providing crucial support during International Stress Awareness Week, which runs until 7 November.

Fiona O'Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said:

"Stress affects everyone differently, but the good news is that there are simple, evidence-based techniques that can make a real difference. This week, we're encouraging people to take small, manageable steps towards better mental health."

The timing of National Stress Awareness Day, held on the first Wednesday of November each year, is deliberate. Wednesday typically represents the peak of work week pressure, when stress levels are at their highest.

Ten Ways to Reduce Stress

Talk about it. Sharing worries with a friend, family member or counsellor can reduce the burden and offer fresh perspective on difficult situations.

Join a choir. Singing in a group releases endorphins and oxytocin, hormones that promote happiness and social connection whilst reducing anxiety. The rhythmic breathing involved in singing can slow the heart rate and calm the nervous system, similar to meditation. Being part of a choir fosters a strong sense of belonging and community, helping to lift mood and build resilience against everyday stress.

Try online counselling. Turn2Me.ie offers up to six free sessions with qualified counsellors, fully online and confidential, removing the barrier of having to attend appointments in person.

Get moving. Exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural stress relievers. Even a brisk walk around the block or along the Marina can do wonders for mental wellbeing.

Breathe deeply. Practising deep breathing or mindfulness for just five minutes can calm the nervous system and help restore a sense of control.

Take breaks from screens. Reducing screen time, especially before bed, can improve mood and sleep quality, helping the body recover from daily stressors.

Keep a routine. Structure brings stability. Regular sleep, meals and work times help reduce anxiety and create a sense of predictability in uncertain times.

Limit caffeine and alcohol. Alcohol is a depressant, whilst caffeine can heighten anxiety. Both can disrupt sleep patterns. Moderation is key to maintaining emotional balance.

Practice gratitude. Noting three positive things each day can shift focus away from stressors and help reframe difficult situations in a more balanced light.

Ask for help early. Reaching out for professional support at the first signs of stress can prevent it from becoming overwhelming. Early intervention is crucial.

Turn2Me.ie's free online services include one-to-one counselling, support groups and mental health resources, all accessible from home. The service provides vital support to communities across Ireland, including Cork, where access to mental health services can sometimes be limited.

Ms O'Malley added:

"You don't have to face stress alone. This National Stress Awareness Week, take time for yourself and reach out if you need support."

International Stress Awareness Week, organised by the International Stress Management Association, aims to reduce the stigma around stress and mental health whilst promoting practical strategies for managing pressure in daily life.