April is recognized as National Stress Awareness Month to bring attention to the negative impact of stress. Managing stress is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Knowing how to manage stress can improve mental and physical well-being as well as minimize exacerbation of health-related issues.

It’s critical to recognize what stress and anxiety look like, learn how to build resilience, and know where to go for help.

Stress can cause the following:

• Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration
• Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests
• Trouble concentrating and making decisions
• Nightmares or problems sleeping
• Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, or skin rashes
• Worsening of chronic health problems and mental health conditions
• Increased use of alcohol and drugs

Below are some healthy ways to cope with stress:

• Take breaks from news stories
• Take care of your body by eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and moving more
• Limit alcohol intake
• Avoid using illegal drugs or prescription drugs in ways other than prescribed
• Avoid smoking, vaping, and the use of other tobacco products
• Continue with regular health appointments, tests, screenings, and vaccinations
• Make time to unwind by doing activities you enjoy; take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate
• Connect with friends and family

To learn more about managing stress and anxiety, visit https://hr.nih.gov/.../civil/national-stress-awareness-month and https://www.cdc.gov/.../stres.../cope-with-stress/index.html

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. More resources can be found at https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/

The construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates in the United States. In addition to the resources provided by the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, OSHA provides a list of resources for suicide prevention: https://www.osha.gov/preventingsuicides/

Credit: NIH, CDC, SAMHSA, and OSHA

HazTek Inc. is a leading provider of comprehensive safety management services designed to protect workers by enhancing workplace safety. For additional information or to learn more about HazTek's services, please contact us at 888.842.9835, email us at info@haztekinc.com, or visit our website at www.haztekinc.com