Stress Awareness Month 2026: How we Tackle Stress at FindAUniversity

Stress Awareness Month returns each April as an opportunity to pause, reflect and raise awareness of something that affects us all - stress. In busy working environments, it can often build quietly in the background, making it important that we continue to talk openly about how we recognise and manage it.

Within higher education, stress can be particularly pronounced. Universities are dynamic, high-pressure environments where staff balance tight deadlines and competing priorities. At certain points in the academic year, this pressure can intensify, making it even more important for institutions to recognise the impact of stress and actively support wellbeing across their communities.

This year, we hear directly from our team as they share what they do to reduce stress in both their personal lives and at work, offering a range of simple, practical strategies and personal insights that help them stay balanced during busy periods.

How do we manage stress at FindAUniversity?

“The gym is 100% one of my best tools for managing stress - I try to go 3–4 mornings a week, and it always helps me start the day with a clear head and better focus. Outside of that, taking some time away from screens, getting out for a walk, or spending time in nature is always a great reset. It’s so easy to get stuck on our screens in 2026, so even just grabbing a coffee or meeting friends in person is always a good grounding tool for me too.”

- Charlie Connor, Strategic Client Partner 

"There are a few ways I manage stress. Feeling prepared is a big one for me, I make sure I am prepped in advance for both client and internal meetings which helps me feel more in control and confident. I also plan ahead by taking some time on a Friday to organise, schedule and colour code my calendar for the week ahead. Doing this helps me to manage my time effectively and know what I need to block time out of my day for, and again feel more in control. Quite importantly for me, I do block out 30 mins for a proper lunch break and try my best to eat lunch away from my screen/desk.

Outside of this, I make sure to take regular breaks to stretch my legs, spend some time with my most favourite workmate my cat Cookie and will often listen to music while I make a coffee."

- Nurcin Hopkins, Senior Account Director

"For me, managing stress depends on the cause - if I need to clear my head, going for a run is best. If I've been too busy, blocking out time to relax with a film or book and an early night can really help. And if I'm feeling low, meeting friends perks me up. It can be helpful to have a list of activities for varying energy levels to choose from when you're feeling overwhelmed. Reducing decision fatigue is important!"

- Colette White, Associate Product Manager (Keystone Education Group)

"A student ambassador at one of our study fairs once shared the idea of a ‘worry mind map’ for bedtime. As someone prone to overthinking, especially when trying to sleep, I had to try it. That same night, I wrote all my worries on one side of a paper and the possible solutions on the other side. Before I even finished, I was out cold. It’s been a simple, creative way to overcome overthinking and insomnia."

- Maka Mutamiri, Content Creator

"Getting outside for a walk or picking up a good book are two of the most effective ways I’ve found to manage stress. A walk in the countryside helps ease the pressure of any deadlines and gives me space to think away from a desk, while reading allows me to switch off completely for a while. Between the two, I’m able to come back to whatever’s on my mind with a clearer, more positive perspective."

- Sophie Adamson, Events Officer

"For me, running is my go-to method. I find that getting out for a run either before or after work helps reset everything. No matter how hectic things are, a run always puts things back into perspective. Outside of that, I'm pretty strict about keeping work at work; once I'm off the clock, I'm off. No emails, no 'just quickly checking in' that time is mine. I think protecting your personal time is just as important as any responsibility you have at work. I find both of these help me feel sharper and more energised when I am at my desk. Run, switch off, show up feeling the best I can, that's my approach."

- Ollie Brown , Key Account Manager

Supporting staff wellbeing at FindAUniversity

At FindAUniversity, we take a practical, people-first approach to wellbeing - because what helps one person switch off or recharge won’t work for everyone. Instead of a fixed formula, we focus on creating an environment where individuals can find what works for them.

Some of that comes through small, consistent moments. Our monthly Fikas - inspired by the Swedish tradition - are informal chances to pause, grab a coffee, and catch up, whether you’re in the office or working remotely. Alongside this, our Life Days give extra flexibility when it matters most, so major life events don’t have to compete with annual leave.

We’ve also shaped our workspace to make it easier to step away when you need to. From books and board games to a dedicated outdoor area, there are plenty of ways to take a proper break, get some fresh air, or reset during the day.

Connection beyond work matters too. That’s why we keep things social but low-pressure, with optional meetups, games nights and team get-togethers that people can dip into as they like.

Looking to ease the pressure in your postgraduate recruitment? Chat with our team - we’re here to help.