Here are our 10 key takeaways and tips in the run-up to International Stress Awareness Week 2024 (November 4-8), organised by ISMA:

1. Focus on Mental Wellbeing: The theme for 2024, Campaigning to reduce stress and improve wellbeing, highlights the importance of individual and organisational efforts to reduce stress and improve mental health. Everyone should prioritise self-care and mental wellness.

2. Tackle Workplace Stress: With 49% of work-related health issues tied to stress, it’s crucial for employers to create supportive environments. Initiatives that address workload management, relationships, and role clarity are key.

3. Combat Stigma Around Mental Health: This year’s core focus is removing the stigma surrounding stress and mental health. Normalising open conversations in workplaces and communities helps people feel more comfortable seeking help.

4. Encourage Early Intervention: Addressing stress early, before it escalates into more serious conditions like anxiety or depression, can significantly improve quality of life. Organisations are encouraged to adopt proactive measures to support mental health.

5. Utilize Resources: ISMA offers a range of free downloadable resources to raise awareness and support stress management initiatives, useful for both individuals and organisations.

6. Legal and Ethical Duty of Care: Employers have a legal duty to safeguard employee wellbeing, and investing in mental health pays off with improved productivity and lower turnover.

7. Global Online Summit: ISMA is hosting the Global Online Stress & Wellbeing Summit on November 6, featuring experts discussing stress management in the workplace, technology’s role in stress, and how to champion mental health.

8. Stress Management Awards: In honour of ISMA’s 50th anniversary, awards will be presented to organisations that demonstrate exemplary efforts in reducing workplace stress and supporting employee mental health.

9. Collaboration for Better Mental Health: Effective stress management requires collective effort. Collaboration between businesses, health organisations, and communities is essential to create lasting change.

10. Personal and Organisational Impact: Reducing stress improves mental health and leads to better job satisfaction, relationships, and overall quality of life, benefiting both employees and employers.

These highlights show the importance of holistic stress management, benefiting individuals and organisations alike while advocating for open dialogue and proactive mental health support.

Find out more by visiting the ISMA website