Stress is the mental and physical response that occurs when life feels overwhelming, too many demands, limited time, or challenging situations. It’s your body signaling pressure, and when unmanaged, it can affect focus, energy, and decision-making. Building mental health capacity means learning to recognize stress early, manage it effectively, and develop resilience to handle life’s challenges with greater control and well-being.
Anxiety is a mental health condition where feelings of nervousness or worry persist even when there’s no obvious cause. These thoughts and physical sensations can stay with you, making daily tasks feel overwhelming and impacting focus, energy, and overall well-being. Building mental health capacity means learning how to recognize these feelings, manage them effectively, and create strategies to maintain balance in life.
While stress can sometimes help us respond to challenges, like increasing focus before a big project or important decision, anxiety is different. It goes beyond temporary nerves, becoming persistent, overwhelming, and capable of disrupting daily life if not recognized and managed. Developing mental health capacity means learning to identify anxiety, understand its impact, and build strategies to maintain control and well-being.
Sleep has a big impact on our mood and can affect how stressed or anxious we feel.
Aim to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.
Switch off all screens at least two hours before you plan to sleep.
Stay away from caffeine and other energy boosters later in the day.
Design a perfect sleep environment that is cozy, dark, cool, and free from distractions (refrain from using TV or screens while in bed)
Establish a bedtime routine, such as reading, meditating, stretching, or practicing deep breathing, to help prepare your body and mind for rest.
Make sure to consult your doctor if you continue to experience persistent sleep issues, whether it’s sleeping too little or too much.
Seeking help for the first time can feel intimidating or overwhelming. If that’s how you’re feeling, start by talking with a trusted friend. Ask them to support you as you schedule an appointment, and take the time to gather information about anxiety, learn practical strategies, and develop tools to manage stress and build your mental health capacity.
Text “Brave” to 741-741 to the Crisis Text Line or call/text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Both provide free, 24/7 support.
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