Be aware of stress, and look after your health

3 November 2020

Humberside Police Federation chair Pete Musgrave says small lifestyle changes can make a big difference to members’ wellbeing.

Pete was speaking at the start of International Stress Awareness Week, which runs from 2 to 6 November.

The week, which also includes National Stress Awareness Day tomorrow (4 November) aims to shine a light on stress and mental health problems, raise awareness and promote support services.

Police Mutual has produced a factsheet with tips on how to manage your stress such as exercise, organising your time and talking to friends, family or colleagues.

And Pete said: “As police officers, we’ve all experienced pressure of the job. We’re all very busy in our work and at home, and often we don’t allow any time for ourselves.

“It’s better to prevent those stresses and strains from becoming overwhelming, which is why we’re encouraging members to take some time for themselves, particularly now as we head into a second lockdown.

“The Police Mutual factsheet is a good starting point for helping you look after your wellbeing. It contains useful tips for managing our stress levels such as eating well, identifying your triggers and keeping a daily routine.

“It’s those small changes that can have a big impact on your wellbeing.

“There's also the Federation’s Hear ‘Man Up’, Think ‘Man Down’ campaign which encourages officers to take each other’s mental wellbeing as seriously as they take each other’s physical safety.

“The Federation is here for those members who need our help or support,” Pete added.