2023

Hello!

Did you know that April is National Stress Awareness Month? To say that things are stressful at NMTS these days is an understatement! Not all stress is negative…stress can also result from positive things like amazing growth and a huge building renovation. But whether it is ‘positive’ or ‘negative’ stress, it can affect our bodies and minds in very bad ways. We were just having a conversation about stress in the office and Dena said something that fits in so perfectly with this month’s theme. She said, “My brain can handle stress, it’s just my body that can’t!” I thought that was such a perfect reminder of our need to be aware of not only what causes us stress, but also how that stress affects our brains, bodies, and overall quality of life. We can’t avoid stress. But it is so important to develop that awareness of how to avoid negative stressors (as much as we can) and how to cope with the physical and mental effects of stress. And the coping looks different for everyone. It may be taking a walk at the end of the day, listening to calming music or belting out one of your favorite rage songs in the car, going to bed a little earlier, or calling a trusted friend. Even small steps will help your body and your mind. This will in turn help you not only cope with your current stress, it will make you better equipped to handle the stress that is inevitably lurking in the future.

Here’s to a healthier and less stressful April!

Manal Toppozada, Founder and Executive Director