April is stress awareness month!

April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the deep pervasiveness of stress and how to spread awareness about healthy ways to cope. This month is a great opportunity for everyone to revisit and reprioritized healthy and productive stress relief strategies.
Stress is incredibly common affecting two in three adults, according to the American Psychological Association’s Stress in America 2020 report. It can happen to anyone at any time, regardless of current circumstances or situations. Stress can also cause physical health problems from headaches and stomach aches to stroke and heart disease. With healthy coping mechanisms, however, we can all take better care of ourselves.
Here’s a few helpful tips to reduce stress:

• Avoid caffeine, which can increase heart rate and anxiety.
• Take a hot bath and allow the heat to reduce muscle tension.
• Turn to your relaxing hobbies, such as reading, cooking, and listening to music.
• Schedule recreation, which is essential for physical and mental health, and get outside to exercise, play, and experience other outdoor activities.
• Breathe deeply, slowly inhaling for a count of four, exhaling for a count of four, and repeating until you feel calm.
• Seek professional help if needed. If you or a family member would like help finding a mental health care or substance use treatment provider, contact Care Solace, a complimentary and confidential coordination service provided by Horry County Schools:
  • Call 888-515-0595. Support is available 24/7/365 in any language.
  • Visit caresolace.com/horrycounty and either search on your own OR click “Book Appointment” for assistance by video chat, email, or phone.

As a district we are committed to the well-being of our students, staff, and families. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you manage or cope with your stress. We’re all in this together.