Spring is the season of renewal. During Stress Awareness Month, it’s a reminder that mental well-being deserves the same attention as a clean home. Everyday stress can affect health, but recognizing symptoms and practicing stress management techniques can help you regain balance and control.
What is stress, and why it matters
Stress is your body’s response to challenges or demands. Short-term stress can be helpful, but ongoing stress may affect both physical and emotional health. Common symptoms include trouble sleeping, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and muscle tension. Women may experience stress differently than men, and children and teens often show stress through changes in mood, behavior, or school performance.
Understanding how stress shows up in your life is the first step toward managing it. Health literacy—knowing what stress is, how it affects the body, and when to seek support—empowers you to act earlier.
Decluttering supports mental clarity
Cluttered spaces can contribute to mental overload. When your environment feels chaotic, your brain is constantly processing visual reminders of unfinished tasks, which can increase stress and anxiety. Spring cleaning is more than a seasonal habit—it’s a simple way to reduce distractions and create a calmer, more supportive environment.
Even small steps, such as organizing a desk or clearing a single drawer, can make it easier to focus and feel more at ease.
Stress management techniques that can help
Reducing stress doesn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul. Small, consistent practices can make a meaningful difference.
- Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. Techniques like deep breathing, guided meditation, or body scans can help calm the nervous system and reduce stress.1 - Move your body regularly
Physical activity is a proven way to reduce stress and improve mood. Walking, stretching, yoga, or other forms of movement release endorphins that support mental health.2 - Stay connected
Social connection plays a key role in stress management. Talking with friends, family members, or coworkers can help buffer workplace stress and reduce feelings of isolation.
Health plan support for managing stress
As a Mass General Brigham Health Plan member, you have access to resources designed to support stress management and overall well-being.
- Behavioral health support
Members can access behavioral health services through partners like Lyra and Optum, including therapy, coaching, and digital tools to help manage stress, anxiety, and other concerns.3 - Wellness and health coaching
Health coaching services can help you set realistic goals around stress management, sleep, physical activity, and mindfulness—with personalized support along the way.4 - Mindfulness and wellness tools
Many members also have access to guided meditation, fitness, and wellness programs through platforms included with their plan.5
A simple spring reset
This Stress Awareness Month, consider pairing physical spring cleaning with mental self-care. Clear one small space, take a few minutes to breathe or move, and explore the tools available through your health plan. Small changes can help reduce stress, support mindfulness, and improve your overall health—one step at a time.
- Mass General Brigham Health Plan. Mental wellness reset: Mindful practices to start the year strong. https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/mental-wellness-reset-mindful-practices-to-start-the-year-strong
- Mass General Brigham. Innovative treatments hold promise for mental health. https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/about/newsroom/articles/innovative-treatments-hold-promise-for-mental-health
- Mass General Brigham Health Plan. Behavioral health resources for members. https://www2.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/members/bh
- Mass General Brigham Health Plan. Wellness and health coaching benefits. https://www2.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/members/Benefits/wellness
- Mass General Brigham Health Plan. Nurture your mind: Prioritizing mental health. https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/nurture-your-mind-prioritizing-mental-health