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How to Manage Your Stress for Stress Awareness Month (and Beyond)

Working in the hair and beauty industry is one of the most rewarding careers out there. From transforming clients looks to building strong relationships, it can be incredibly fulfilling. But with that career satisfaction often comes periods of high stress.

While it’s important to accept that stress is a natural part of life, too much of it can seriously impact your wellbeing. And for some, that overwhelm can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as alcohol or other substances.

Even everyday responsibilities like managing finances or juggling salon schedules can contribute to chronic stress – which has been linked to everything from heart disease to a weakened immune system.

Since April is Stress Awareness Month, we’re sharing tips to help you assess and manage your stress levels and maybe even pass them on to someone else who could use the support.

How Much Stress Is Too Much?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what’s considered a “normal” amount of stress. We all cope differently. But when stress becomes chronic, it can take a serious toll on both your mental and physical health.

This year’s Stress Awareness Month theme is #LeadWithLove – not just in how we treat others, but in how we treat ourselves. Remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup, and learning to ask for help is a strength, not a weakness.

Signs You Might Be Experiencing Chronic Stress:

Poor sleep – Trouble falling asleep or waking up frequently, your mind racing with work or personal worries.
Neglecting hygiene – Letting your personal care slip can be a red flag and may also impact your professional image in the salon.
Emotional changes – Increased anxiety, mood swings, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed and low.
Digestive issues or changes in appetite – Stress often shows up in your stomach, and skipping meals can make things worse (and no one wants to faint at the backwash!).

Learn to Say “No” (Without the Guilt)

Let’s face it – saying “no” is hard. Whether it’s telling a client their hair can’t take another bleach session, turning down a last-minute appointment, or setting boundaries with loved ones, it’s uncomfortable.

But constantly saying “yes” at the expense of your own needs is a recipe for burnout. Every “no” you say is one less thing on your to-do list – and one more moment to breathe.

Saying “no” doesn’t mean being unkind or irresponsible. It just means recognising your limits and choosing what’s best for your health, happiness, and sanity.

Try a Digital Detox

Let’s talk about the scroll. It’s way too easy to wake up, grab your phone, and get bombarded with stressful news, emails, and unrealistic social media posts before you’ve even gotten out of bed.

Instead, try this:

Don’t reach for your phone until you’ve done something kind for yourself – washed your face, eaten breakfast, or had your morning coffee or tea.

Give yourself just 5 to 20 minutes of peace at the start of your day. That small window can set the tone for everything that follows.