Stress Awareness Month Spotlights Mental Health Challenges Across U.S.

April is recognized as National Stress Awareness Month, highlighting the widespread impact of stress on physical and mental health across various communities and age groups. Mental health professionals emphasize that while stress is a normal response to challenges, chronic or unchecked stress can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease, depression, and increased susceptibility to addiction. Experts recommend coping strategies such as group therapy, mindfulness, regular exercise, healthy routines, and building support networks to manage stress effectively. Older adults are particularly encouraged to seek out specialized programs, as social connections and group support can be especially beneficial. In places like Aspen, societal pressures and high costs of living can exacerbate stress, and there is an added stigma around acknowledging mental health struggles even in seemingly idyllic settings. Across the country, professionals stress the importance of recognizing stress signals early and seeking help when personal coping mechanisms are not enough.