Taking Care of Yourself During Stress Awareness Month

April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to reflect on stress , how it affects us, and, most importantly how we can manage it better. If you’ve experienced child-to-parent abuse (CPA), you know that stress can feel overwhelming and constant. It’s so important to realise that you’re not alone, and there are ways to take care of yourself while navigating these experiences.

Understanding Stress and Child-to-Parent Abuse

Experiencing Child to Parent Abuse (CPA) can bring a mix of emotions—frustration, sadness, guilt and fear. It’s important to remind yourself that none of this is your fault. CPA is a complex issue, and Stress Awareness Month is a great opportunity to pause and focus on your wellbeing, and most importantly you. No matter what your situation is, you matter.

Small Ways to Reduce Stress 

You don’t need to make massive changes. Sometimes, little things can make a big difference. Here are a few wellbeing techniques to help you manage stress or other emotions:

• Breathing exercises – When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath in for four seconds, hold for four seconds, and breathe out for four seconds. Repeat a few times. It’s a simple way to calm your nervous system. There are many videos online which can provide support with this.

• Mindful moments – Find small pockets of time to check in with yourself. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, listening to your favorite song, or just stepping outside for fresh air, these moments can help reset your mind. Remember, because you matter.

• Movement – You don’t have to hit the gym, but moving your body in ways you enjoy walking, stretching, dancing in your kitchen,can all help release stress.

• Stepping Back – This is important. It’s okay to step back. Stepping back isn't selfish, it's necessary for your wellbeing. Because you matter.

• Reaching out – You don’t have to go through this alone. Talking to someone who understands, whether it’s a support group, a therapist, or a trusted friend, can make a world of difference. Only if this is safe to do so.

Finding Support and Being Kind to Yourself

Stress Awareness Month’s theme this year is #LeadWithLove, which is all about showing kindness to yourself and others. That includes giving yourself permission to rest, recognizing your own strength, and letting go of any guilt you may be carrying.

Stress is a natural response to situations and experiences, but it doesn’t have to take over. By taking small steps toward selfcare and reaching out for support when you need it, you can begin to manage stress in a healthier way, or a way that suits you. This Stress Awareness Month, let’s focus on self-compassion, breathing through the moments, and reminding ourselves that we are not alone. Because, you matter

The Stress Management Society   provide some fantastic online resources which could come in handy, for more information please visit: https://www.stress.org.uk/stress-awareness-month-2025/