How to Manage Stress and Improve Your Health
April is Stress Awareness Month, and it’s a great time to reflect on how stress affects our minds, bodies, and day-to-day wellbeing and of course how to manage stress.
According to the Mental Health Foundation, 74% of people in the UK have felt so stressed at some point that they were overwhelmed or unable to cope.
At Kamsons Pharmacy, we’re using this month to help spread awareness about how stress impacts not only your mood but also your long-term health, and to share practical ways to manage it.
We believe mental and physical health go hand in hand, and we’re here to support you on your journey to a calmer, healthier life.
What Is Stress?
Stress is your body’s natural response to pressure. It can affect anyone, at any age, and it often shows up during big life changes, ongoing pressure, or periods of uncertainty.
Stress doesn’t always look the same for everyone but some common signs include:
Emotional and behavioural signs:
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Feeling overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, or low
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Changes in eating or sleeping habits
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Using alcohol, food, or other behaviours to cope
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Avoiding people or responsibilities
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Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Physical signs:
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Headaches or muscle tension
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Chest pain or dizziness
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Nausea or digestive issues
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Fatigue or low energy
Why Managing Stress Matters
Managing stress isn’t just about feeling better in the moment — it’s about protecting your long-term health.
Ongoing stress is linked to:
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High blood pressure
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Heart disease
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Obesity
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Depression and anxiety
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Addictions (including food, alcohol, or gambling)
Finding healthy ways to manage stress is key to improving your overall wellbeing and preventing more serious issues down the line.
How to Manage Stress
The first step is recognising what’s making you feel stressed. This might be:
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Work or unemployment
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Financial worries
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Relationship problems
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Illness or health concerns
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Grief or big life changes
Once you’ve identified the cause, talk to someone you trust. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or professional, opening up can help you feel less alone and more in control.
Here are some simple ways to manage stress in your daily life:
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Eat a balanced diet – nourish your body and mind with healthy, energising foods.
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Move your body – even a short walk outdoors can help clear your head.
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Try deep breathing or meditation – just five minutes can make a difference.
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Write it down – journaling helps sort through racing thoughts.
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Stick to a sleep routine – your brain and body need rest.
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Cut back on caffeine, sugar, and alcohol – especially when feeling anxious.
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Do something calming – read, take a bath, or make a cup of tea.
It’s not about a perfect routine — just finding small daily moments that help you reset and recharge.
When to Seek Help
Stress is a normal part of life, but if it starts to feel constant or unmanageable, don’t hesitate to seek support. Speaking to a GP, pharmacist, or mental health professional can help you feel more in control.
How Kamsons Pharmacy Can Support You
At Kamsons Pharmacy, we’re here to help make everyday health more manageable and that includes stress.
Here are a few ways we can support your wellbeing:
- Free NHS Blood Pressure Checks – available to anyone over 40. High blood pressure can be a sign of long-term stress, and early detection matters.
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Weight Management Support – if stress has affected your eating habits or energy levels, we can help with in-person guidance and encouragement.
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Free Prescription Delivery – don’t let picking up medication add to your to-do list. Let us deliver your prescriptions straight to your door, free of charge. Just speak to your local branch to get set up.
Stress is something many of us experience, you’re not alone. Taking small steps to manage it each day can make a big difference in how you feel, both mentally and physically.
Visit your local Kamsons Pharmacy this Stress Awareness Month for advice, health checks, or a friendly chat. We’re here to help you feel your best.