As we continue to advocate for Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s important to remember that prioritizing mental well-being extends beyond a single month. At Vertical IQ, we view mental health as a practice that needs to be implemented in our day-to-day lives — in and out of the office.
Earlier this month, we asked a few of our colleagues their favorite tips/tricks for maintaining a healthy work/life balance, which you can read in our previous blog, Cultivating a Culture of Mental Wellness. This time, more of our incredible Vertical IQ teammates have joined the conversation and shared their favorite ways to alleviate stress. Here’s what they had to say:
“When I feel stressed, I find it helpful to have discussions with my wife or a friend — not necessarily about the cause of my stress but about practical steps I can take to ease the pressure. Having these conversations and seeking input from loved ones I trust provides me with valuable outside perspectives and support, and helps me focus on what I can control rather than worrying about the things I can’t.”
Jacob Dougherty, Sales Development Representative
“I began practicing Transcendental Meditation in 2022. Practicing it twice daily (morning and evening) for 20 minutes each session has been instrumental in helping me decompress and manage stress more effectively. Another quick and effective way to prevent burnout is to take a short walk. The fresh air is truly rejuvenating!”
Kinnari Shah, Backend Software Developer
“I have two young girls who remind me of the simple joys in life and encourage me not to take things too seriously. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll, bouncing on the trampoline, riding bikes, or blowing bubbles, these outdoor moments hold a special place in my heart, allowing me to unwind, recharge, and appreciate the beauty of the present.”
Kelli Dupree, Account Executive
“When I’m feeling stressed about a big project, I like to step away for a few minutes and grab a snack. Then I get out a sheet of paper and break it down into as many small steps as I can, which makes it easier to start, since that’s the hardest part for me. After work, I like to spend some time in nature to relax, or if it’s raining, I’ll open up a window and listen to it with a mug of tea and a good book.”
Zeke Hart, Full Stack Developer
In addition to these insightful tips shared by the Vertical IQ team, we encourage you to have continuous discussions about self-care and stress management within your own communities and workplaces. By having open discussions, you are helping break the stigma surrounding mental health challenges and encouraging others to take proactive steps to take control of their well-being.
And always remember: Small acts of kindness, such as a friendly smile, holding the door open for someone, or simply offering a listening ear, can have big impacts. Your mental health matters … today and every day.
Support is readily available. Whether seeking guidance for yourself or supporting a loved one, there are numerous resources available, such as hotlines, therapy services, online support communities, and wellness apps. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and no one has to face mental health struggles alone.