International Stress Awareness Week | ISMA Stress Management Association

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About International Stress Awareness Week

Founded by ISMA^UK — creators of Stress Awareness Day and International Stress Awareness Week.

The 2026 theme explores the future of wellbeing in a changing world:

“Shaping the Future of Stress and Wellbeing: Rehumanising the Workplace”

International Stress Awareness Week is a major annual campaign created and led by ISMA^UK to increase public awareness of stress, its impact, and the importance of mental health and wellbeing. The Week brings together employers, wellbeing practitioners, policymakers, educators and communities in a shared commitment to healthier, more supportive ways of working and living.

International Stress Awareness Week was established by ISMA^UK on the 25th anniversary of Stress Awareness Day, expanding the campaign’s reach and creating a global platform for awareness and action.

Each year, the campaign continues to grow in international reach and influence as more countries take part.

What People Say About Stress Awareness Week

“Raising awareness about stress and mental health is vital if we are to create a more open, understanding and supportive society. ISMA^UK plays an important role in driving that conversation forward.”

Alastair Campbell, Writer, Broadcaster and Mental Health Campaigner

A Global Campaign with Strong Media Interest

International Stress Awareness Week attracts significant attention from print, broadcast and digital media. Coverage grows each year as organisations around the world highlight the importance of stress awareness, psychological safety and wellbeing.

The Week also generates substantial social engagement, helping organisations share their stories, activities and commitment to mental health.

International Stress Awareness Week and Stress Awareness Day trend worldwide on social media, with exposure on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and LinkedIn.

If you would like to know more about media opportunities for International Stress Awareness Week and Stress Awareness Day in 2026, please contact Carole Spiers MBE - chair@isma.org.uk.

Global Online Stress & Wellbeing Summit – Wednesday 4 November 2026

The centrepiece of the Week is Stress Awareness Day, supported by ISMA^UK’s flagship online Global Stress & Wellbeing Summit.

The Summit brings together international speakers, wellbeing leaders and organisational influencers to explore how we can rehumanise the workplace and build healthier, more resilient working cultures.

For more information about the Summit, please contact our Claire Parkinson - Administrator at admin@isma.org.uk.

International Events

International Stress Awareness Week is marked around the world with a wide range of events and initiatives.

In Italy, major congresses regularly attract over 1,000 delegates, demonstrating the global scale and professional engagement the Week inspires.
Other countries host conferences, webinars, panels, practitioner events, awareness campaigns and community activities — each contributing to the international movement for improved mental wellbeing.

This global participation continues to expand year by year.

Run Your Own Event

Many organisations choose to support the Week by hosting their own activities, including:

Workplace wellbeing sessions
Webinars and virtual seminars
Awareness events or team briefings
Panels, discussions or learning sessions
Community or school-based events

A leaflet with guidance and event ideas is available to download here.

Organisations of any size — from global employers to community groups — are encouraged to join the conversation and help increase awareness, and to:

Promote the 2026 theme to encourage reflection and dialogue
Share examples of good practice in stress reduction and mental wellbeing

Everyone has a role to play in reducing stigma, improving understanding and supporting healthier responses to stress.

ISMA^UK Stress Management Awards

Launched in 2024 to mark ISMA^UK’s 50th anniversary, the ISMA^UK Stress Management Awards recognise organisations, teams and individuals who demonstrate leadership, innovation and excellence in reducing stress and improving wellbeing.

The Awards celebrate those who are making a meaningful difference — from small initiatives to organisation-wide cultural change. They also encourage employers to share best practice and inspire others to take positive action.

Categories highlight achievements across workplace wellbeing, psychological safety, stress reduction, resilience-building and impactful leadership.

To find out more about the Awards, please contact: Carole Spiers MBE – chair@isma.org.uk

Get Involved

There are many ways to take part:

Highlight the Week across your organisation
Host your own event or awareness session
Attend the Global Stress & Wellbeing Summit
Share resources and spark conversations with your teams

Support the Week

Organisations wishing to explore sponsorship opportunities or request the sponsorship pack can contact:

Carole Spiers MBE – chair@isma.org.uk

Wellbeing & Resilience at Work Training Programme

“I am delighted to support ISMA^UK and their noble mission to reduce stress, build resilience and improve wellbeing, both in the workplace and in society”