Last updated: October 2026
Stress Awareness Week runs in the first week of November, with International Stress Awareness Day on Wednesday 4 November 2026. It’s organised by the International Stress Management Association to raise awareness of stress and how to manage it. Here are simple ideas to mark the week at home or at work, plus a 5-day plan.
Below: what Stress Awareness Week is, a 5-day stress reset, ideas for workplaces, signs of stress to watch for, and where to get help.
What is Stress Awareness Week?
International Stress Awareness Week takes place each November, led by the International Stress Management Association (ISMA). Its aim is to raise awareness of stress, reduce stigma, and encourage people and employers to take action. Stress Awareness Day falls on the first Wednesday in November. There’s also a separate Stress Awareness Month in April.
A 5-day stress reset for the week
| Day | Focus | Try this |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Notice | Write down what’s stressing you and rate each one out of 10 |
| Tuesday | Move | A brisk 20-minute walk outside, ideally in daylight |
| Wednesday | Breathe | 3 sessions of slow breathing with a long out-breath. See nervous system regulation |
| Thursday | Connect | Call or meet someone you trust and talk about how you are |
| Friday | Rest | A phone-free evening and an early night. See sleep hygiene |
For 15 more techniques, see how to relieve stress.
Stress Awareness Week ideas for work
- Lunchtime walks or a walking meeting.
- A no-meetings afternoon to catch up and focus.
- Share where to get support, such as an employee assistance programme or NHS Talking Therapies.
- Encourage proper breaks away from screens.
- Agree “off” hours for emails and messages.
- Ask managers to check in with their teams.
- Use the HSE’s Management Standards to look at workload, control, support and change.
See burnout symptoms and how to focus better.
Signs of stress to look out for
| Mind | Body | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|
| Feeling overwhelmed, irritable or worried | Headaches, tight muscles, stomach problems | Sleeping badly |
| Racing thoughts, trouble concentrating | Feeling tired all the time | Drinking or smoking more |
| Low mood | Changes in appetite | Avoiding people or things |
See stress and cortisol in women, stress in men and anxiety symptoms.
Build a calmer daily routine
The week is a good moment to build habits that last: daylight in the morning, regular movement, fewer late-night screens, and a proper wind-down before bed. Magnesium contributes to normal psychological function and the normal functioning of the nervous system. Many people make our Magnesium Glycinate Sleep Complex or Reishi Mushroom Adaptogenic Complex part of their evening, and our Flow CBD Oil combines broad spectrum CBD with ashwagandha and maca for daytime routines.
The FSA’s 10mg a day figure for CBD is precautionary advice rather than a legal limit, set while longer-term safety research continues. At Evopure we think it is a very cautious figure, and many adults use more. If you go above it, increase slowly, and check with your GP or pharmacist first if you take any medication.
Where to get help
If stress is affecting your daily life, sleep or relationships, speak to your GP. Adults in England can refer themselves to NHS Talking Therapies. If you feel unable to cope, call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option, or Samaritans on 116 123.
See stress symptoms for the full list of signs.
FAQs
When is Stress Awareness Week 2026?
In the first week of November. International Stress Awareness Day is on Wednesday 4 November 2026.
What is the purpose of Stress Awareness Week?
To raise awareness of stress, reduce stigma and encourage people and employers to take practical steps to manage it.
How can I mark Stress Awareness Week at work?
Try lunchtime walks, a no-meetings afternoon, proper breaks, agreed off hours for email, and sharing where staff can get support.
Is Stress Awareness Month different?
Yes. Stress Awareness Month is in April. Stress Awareness Week is in November.
What are the signs of stress?
Feeling overwhelmed or irritable, racing thoughts, headaches, tight muscles, poor sleep, tiredness and drinking more than usual.
Sources
- NHS. 10 stress busters.
- NHS. Stress.
- Health and Safety Executive. Work-related stress.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Evopure makes Flow CBD Oil, the Magnesium Glycinate Sleep Complex and the Reishi Mushroom Adaptogenic Complex. We don’t recommend our products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
