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National Stress Out Day

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April 14-20, 2013

Presented by:

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Objective

The objective of National Stress Out Day is to spread awareness about stress and anxiety disorders and create supportive communities wherein speaking up about one’s struggles is a sign of strength and self-awareness.

Take Action in Your Community 

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Three simple steps for taking action today:

1.  How are you feeling?

Spring is a stressful time for anyone working on an academic calendar, particularly students.  So, the next time you catch up with someone ask them, “How are you feeling?” and don’t settle for “Good,” or “Fine.”  Find out how they’re feeling about all they have to accomplish and, if relevant, see how you can help.

2.  Schedule a break.

Some people mock mental health days and moments, but we think they rock.  Burnout is never productive, so if you or someone you know is especially stressed reach out and suggest a break.  Can’t take a day off?  No problem!  A ten minute dance party or watching a few funny videos on youtube just might do the trick.

3.  Reach out to a student who needs help.

Do you know a student who is easily distracted, excitable, irritable, or strives for perfection to the point they are afraid to turn in assignments?  Speak up and reach out to them. Let them know that struggling is normal and encourage them to seek help on their campus, in the community, or by calling 1-800-273-TALK. A show of support and understanding can go a long way for someone struggling in silence.

 

Partnerships

partners_logo2 National Stress Øut Day is a collaboration between Active Minds and Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) and is cosponsored by Active Minds, ADAA, and BeyondOCD, with additional support provided by the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL).   

 

Stress Busters

  • Exercise. Physical activity help stressed_02your body and mind. Go to the gym. Take a jog. Go for a walk. Do yoga. Play Frisbee. Just get moving!

  • Eat a balanced diet. Don't skip meals. Try to eat from all of the food groups and try to stay away from caffeine (minimize soda or coffee). Caffeine can trigger anxiety and panic attacks.

  • Limit alcohol and stay away from illegal drugs. Alcohol and drugs aggravate anxiety and can also cause panic attacks.

  • Get involved. Being active in the community creates a support network and gives you a break from your everyday stress.

  • Do your BEST instead of trying to be PERFECT. We all know perfection isn't possible, so be proud of however close you get.

  • Take a time out. Take a deep breath and count to 10. Stepping back from the problem lets you clear your head. Do yoga. Meditate. Get a massage. Learn relaxation techniques. Listen to music.

  • Put things in perspective. Think about your situation. Ask yourself whether it's really as bad as you think it is or if you could be blowing it out of proportion.

  • Talk to someone. Don't let things bottle up to the verge of explosion. Reach out to your roommate, boyfriend, girlfriend or counselor of you're feeling low.

  • Find out what triggers your anxiety. Take notes or write in a journal when you're feeling anxious or stressed, an then look for patterns.

 

Anxiety Disorder Information and Resources


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voices

  • Alison Landberg from Active Minds at College of Saint Scholastica says:

    ali_landberg"In the year that Active Minds at the College of Saint Scholastica has been around, we have thrown amazing events and received a lot of praise from faculty and the community for all of the hard work we have put into raising awareness of mental health."

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