Stress Speaks - Are You Listening?

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03/12/2026

Stress Speaks - Are You Listening?

Stress doesn't always announce itself with worry and feelings of being overwhelmed. Sometimes it shows up quietly in the headache you've had for three days, the stomach that's been off, or the jaw you clench without realizing it. April is National Stress Awareness Month, and this year, ask yourself: are you tuned in to what stress is doing to your body? One clear signal is what happens at night. Stress and sleep have a complicated relationship. Stress makes it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep, and poor sleep makes you less equipped to handle stress the next day. It's a loop that's easy to get stuck in, and many people don't connect the two. If you're waking up tired despite a full night’s rest in bed, stress may be the culprit.

Breaking the cycle often doesn't require a major overhaul. Research supports the power of small, intentional resets throughout the day, what some call "micro-recoveries." Try a two-minute breathing technique like box breathing (inhale 4 counts, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4). Step outside briefly between meetings. Splash cold water on your face. These don’t replace bigger lifestyle changes, but they work in the moment, and moments add up

Stress is relentless, but it's also manageable, especially when you catch it early. Start by listening to what your body is already telling you. Although you can’t eliminate stress, you can learn stress management techniques. If you are feeling stressed or if things seem to be too much, remember that your EAP offers a variety of stress management resources for you and your family members. Here’s a sampling:

One-to-one professional coaching for Stress Management & Resilience
Telephonic counseling from clinical professionals 24/7/365 for stress, anxiety, depression, mental health issues, and more
Online self-help resources and video courses
Resources to help with issues that can cause stress, such as debt, time management, and family dynamics
Health and wellness tools that address fitness, sleep, and nutrition, and other healthy strategies that can help minimize stress

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