Stress Awareness Week is a reminder that while stress is a normal part of life, how we manage it makes all the difference. At Fleet Street Clinic, we see how ongoing stress can affect both mind and body, often long before people realise it’s taking a toll.
Short bursts of stress can be motivating, but when it becomes constant, it can lead to high blood pressure, poor sleep, headaches, digestive issues and burnout. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2024), stress-related conditions contribute to a growing number of workplace absences and chronic health problems worldwide. A UK poll by the Mental Health Foundation found that 74% of adults felt so stressed at some point in their life that they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope.
Here are some simple, evidence-based ways to manage stress and protect your health:
1. Recognise early signs of stress
Irritability, fatigue, disrupted sleep or frequent tension headaches are early warning signs. Many people try to “push through”, but early recognition allows for early action. If you notice physical symptoms like rapid heart rate or frequent colds, it might be time for a health check.
2. Move your body, even briefly
Exercise releases endorphins and helps your body process stress hormones more efficiently. Even a 10 minute walk can reset your nervous system, improve mood and enhance focus.
3. Build small pauses into your day
Constant digital engagement makes it hard for your brain to switch off. Try short “no-screen” breaks, mindful breathing or a walk outside. Small, consistent habits are more effective than one-off wellness resolutions.
4. Support your body through nutrition and sleep
Caffeine and sugar might give a temporary boost but can increase cortisol levels. Eat regularly, prioritise hydration and aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep as this is vital for hormone balance and emotional regulation.
5. Talk to a professional early
Stress isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a physiological response. Speaking with a GP can help identify underlying issues such as anxiety, fatigue, or physical stress symptoms. At Fleet Street Clinic, our doctors take an integrated approach, addressing both mental and physical wellbeing.
6. Prevent, don’t just treat
Regular health checks can catch stress related changes early from elevated blood pressure to disrupted sleep patterns. Preventive care helps keep you balanced, even during busy or demanding periods.
If stress is interfering with your daily life, relationships, or physical health, it’s time to talk. Early guidance can prevent escalation and support recovery. Our GPs can assess your symptoms, offer advice and refer you to further mental health support if needed.
Your health matters every day, not just during Stress Awareness Week.
Book a consultation today to discuss your wellbeing and explore personalised ways to protect your health.
Sources:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-work (WHO, Sept 2024)
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/stress-statistics (Mental Health Foundation, 2018)
https://isma.org.uk/ (ISMA, 2025)
