Stress Awareness Month is an important opportunity to reflect on our mental health and explore practical ways to manage stress. At Anxiety NZ, we're inviting you to join our Self-Care Fundraising Initiative—a chance to set a personal self-care goal while raising funds for mental health initiatives across Aotearoa NZ.
This April, we encourage you to commit to a self-care goal, such as dedicating time for mindfulness, exercise, or creative activities. Whether it's 5 minutes of mindful breathing each morning or a weekly hour-long walk, your personal goal will help you prioritize your wellbeing and make a real difference in the lives of others.
By participating in the Self-Care Fundraising Initiative, you'll also be raising vital funds for Anxiety NZ, helping us continue providing mental health support and resources to those in need.
You can choose a self-care goal that works best for you. Some examples are:
Commit to 5 minutes a day for mindfulness or relaxation
Take a 30-minute walk each week to boost your physical and mental health
Dedicate 15 minutes daily to a creative hobby like journaling, drawing, or knitting
Every minute counts, and your commitment will contribute to a larger movement of people prioritizing their mental wellbeing.
You’ll be supporting yourself while raising funds for a cause that impacts thousands.
Need inspiration? Here are some easy activities to help you get started with your self-care goal:
🧘 Mindfulness & Meditation – Practices like deep breathing or guided meditation can promote relaxation and reduce stress.
🚶 Physical Activity – Regular movement, even short daily walks, can have significant mental health benefits.
🎨 Creative Hobbies – Engage in creative activities such as drawing, painting, or writing to unwind and de-stress.
💤 Prioritise Sleep – A consistent sleep routine is essential for your mental health and stress management.
💬 Social Connections – Spend time talking with friends, family, or loved ones to nurture relationships and reduce stress.
If you’re looking for extra support, we offer a free, self-paced online course designed to help you manage stress and build resilience.
And if you're feeling overwhelmed, our Helpline is available for immediate support. 0800 ANXIETY (0800 269 438)
Let’s make Stress Awareness Month a time for positive change. By committing to your self-care goal, you’re taking a step towards better mental health for yourself and others. And through fundraising, you’ll be directly helping us provide ongoing support for people across New Zealand.
Join us in prioritising self-care and raising awareness for mental health this April. Every minute you commit makes a real impact.
If you are worried about the safety of a loved one, or someone else, you can call the Crisis Team on 0800 800 717 or dial 111 in an emergency.
Important numbers and resources to find advice and support at a time of crisis or distress:
Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.
Lifeline 0800 543 354 or (09) 522 2999 | Free text 4357 (HELP)
Youthline 0800 376 633
Samaritans 0800 726 666
If you or someone you know is at risk of harm: dial 111 or visit your nearest hospital emergency department.
Call 0800 611 116 for your nearest DHB Mental Health Crisis Team (CATT Team).
Do you need support? Yellow Brick Road is a national organisation that provides support for whānau who have a loved one experiencing mental health challenges.
For more information about helping family / whānau visit mentalhealth.org.nz
➡️Looking after your mental health can look different to everyone. SPARX is a free mental health support tool that teaches you CBT skills in a fun and unique way. With each level relating to a different CBT skill, you’ll not only level up your character, but your mental wellbeing too! Start your SPARX journey today! https://www.sparx.org.nz/
