National Stress Awareness Day is observed on the first Wednesday of November and celebrates raising awareness about how stress impacts people’s physical and mental health. One way to recognize this day is to encourage people to discover healthy and easy ways to manage stress in their busy lives.
The security industry can be a very demanding and stressful environment. When security guards, supervisors, and management teams are off duty, it is a good time to reflect on relaxation techniques to help rejuvenate themselves. These techniques can help them not only enjoy their personal time but help refresh them for the next shift. We reached out to a few of our Arrow Security team members for suggestions on how they try to manage and reduce stress that can be incorporated into a hectic schedule of work and family commitments.
Sean Walsh, Regional Vice President of Long Island Operations, shared some of his stress relief practices. “I feel as though during the off hours it’s important to disconnect from any potential distractions that impede self-betterment, like social media for example, which may worsen stress levels” says Sean.
“Not to sound cliche, but it’s definitely important to spend time with friends and family as often as possible, especially keeping in touch with those that we only have the opportunity to interact with sporadically. I try to catch up with and stay connected with these individuals (usually on weekends or during off time) as often as possible since communication is extremely important both inside and outside of work.”
“I also feel as though a fantastic stress reliever is continuing to practice and remain invested in any hobby you have. I think anyone who knows me personally will tell you that I am a big fan of learning foreign languages and for the last 17 years or so have dedicated a ton of spare time to learning and improving upon speaking, understanding, reading, and writing the Spanish language and truthfully, I do not see this ever changing” explains Sean.
Matthew Regan, Director of the Arrow Command Center shares a practice that is successful for him. “Taking a long walk after work is a great way to clear your mind and reconnect with nature. I often find that at work and life, in general, we are so attached to our screens that enjoying some time outside helps relieve stress.”
Taking a break from electronics, engaging in a hobby, reaching out to friends and family, and exercising are just a few ideas for relieving stress. Consider trying to incorporate some of these suggestions into your routine. Be well!