April marks Stress Awareness Month

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – April is Stress Awareness Month, a time when local organizations are encouraging the community to reflect on both physical and mental health.

Mental health professionals say recognizing the signs of stress is an important first step in managing it before it becomes overwhelming.

Lead Therapist Daniel Kiser, with Parkridge Mental Health Therapy Center at UTC, said stress can show itself in many different ways.

He explained that signs may include rapid breathing, racing thoughts, trouble sleeping, and feeling constantly on edge or hypervigilant.

Kiser said stress can look different for everyone, which is why self-awareness is so important.

“Pay attention to your sensory input. If we can slow down and take some deep breaths, awareness is big. There are things that activate me that I am actively aware of, certain stressful situations, and that can help me gain perspective and create some distance,” Kiser said.

He added that taking time to pause, breathe, and identify stress triggers can make a meaningful difference in day-to-day life.

Kiser also reminded the public that no one has to go through stressful situations alone.

He encourages anyone who feels overwhelmed to reach out to a mental health professional or trusted support system for help.