This week marks Mental Health Awareness Week (12th–18th May 2025). This year’s theme is “Community”—a powerful reminder that we’re stronger together. In business and beyond, the connections we build have a profound impact on our well-being. Whether it’s a supportive team culture, a trusted peer network, or simply checking in with colleagues, community plays a vital role in protecting mental health and preventing burnout.
April may have been Stress Awareness Month, but the need to manage pressure and foster resilience doesn’t end there. That’s why we’ve created this practical SME Stress Toolkit—a collection of simple, effective steps to help you and your team recognise stress early, respond mindfully, and support each other as a community.
Community and Connection: Small Steps, Big Impact
Here are three ways to support your mental health—and your team’s—through the power of community:
- Build Strong Connections – Regularly check in with your colleagues, friends, and business partners. Meaningful conversations and support networks can provide comfort during tough times.
- Encourage Open Communication – Create a culture where talking about mental health is welcomed. Sharing experiences and challenges can reduce stigma and help others feel less isolated.
- Join or Create a Support Group – Whether it’s a formal group or an informal gathering, being part of a community with shared interests or goals can provide a sense of belonging and reduce stress.
Understanding Stress: It’s Not a Weakness
Stress is a natural response to challenging situations. When you’re facing tight deadlines, financial worries, or a demanding workload, your body activates its “fight or flight” system—releasing hormones that raise your heart rate and keep you alert.
In small doses, this can be helpful. But when the pressure doesn’t ease, your body stays on high alert—and that’s when stress becomes chronic. It might start with work concerns, but it can quickly spiral: poor sleep, irritability, lack of focus, and emotional exhaustion. The good news? You can break the cycle.
Your SME Stress Toolkit
Here are some practical steps to help manage stress and build resilience—individually and across your team.
1. The Reset Button: Breathe and Pause
Tool: 60-Second Breathing Technique
Stress builds quickly, so slowing down can help. Take a minute to breathe deeply—inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4. Repeat 3 times. This simple act signals your nervous system to relax.
2. The Clarity Compass: Focus on What You Can Control
Tool: “Circle of Control” Checklist
When it feels like everything’s spinning, step back. List what you can control (your actions, your mindset, your boundaries) and what you can’t (others’ decisions, market trends). Shift your energy to what’s within your circle.
3. The Early Warning System: Know the Signs
Tool: Weekly Stress Self-Check
Stress doesn’t always shout—it whispers:
• Am I more tired than usual?
• Am I losing patience quickly?
• Is my sleep or focus being affected?
Spotting these signs early gives you the chance to act before burnout sets in.
4. The Recharge Routine: Make Time to Unwind
Tool: Micro-Break Planner
Small breaks aren’t a luxury—they’re essential. Plan regular short breaks during the day: stretch, get some air, grab a cuppa without a screen. Protecting your energy leads to more sustainable productivity.
5. The Talk Valve: Speak Up and Listen
Tool: Honest Conversations
Encourage open dialogue. Ask, “How are you really?” and make it okay to not be okay. As a leader or peer, showing vulnerability helps others feel safe to speak up too.
6. The Support Scanner: Know Where to Get Help
If stress feels overwhelming, you can get in touch with professionals for support.
• Mind – mind.org.uk | 0300 123 3393
• Samaritans – samaritans.org | 116 123 (24/7)
• NHS Every Mind Matters – nhs.uk/every-mind-matters
Let this Mental Health Awareness Week be your reminder: stress management isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. And small steps, taken consistently, can lead to a big impact—especially when we take them together.
At MOMENTUM, we help helping to lighten your everyday business burdens, we give you back the time and headspace to focus on what matters most—your wellbeing, your team, and your goals. You’re not alone in this. We’re here to keep you moving forward!
T: 01903 910546