A recent survey conducted by Hastings Hotels revealed that more than a third of people in Ireland experience high levels of stress on a daily basis. The survey, which included over 1,400 adults from both the Republic and Northern Ireland, found that individuals aged 45-54 reported the highest levels of stress, with women in this age group feeling the strain more than men.
The main causes of stress identified in the survey were work responsibilities, money worries, health concerns, and family pressures. Work responsibilities were found to be the leading cause, affecting close to half of the participants, followed by money worries, health concerns, and family pressures. A further 14% of respondents identified caregiving responsibilities and work colleagues as contributing factors to their stress levels.
In terms of coping mechanisms, respondents highlighted the importance of proper sleep, exercise, spending time in nature, and taking time away from work for maintaining good mental wellbeing. Connecting with family and friends was also seen as crucial for six in 10 participants, while one in four said that time away from family helped their mental health.
Interestingly, the survey found that a hotel stay had a better impact on participants’ mental wellbeing compared to other forms of accommodation, such as Airbnb. The majority of participants chose to escape with their partners, but solo travel was also a popular option for one in 10 people.
Claire Crummey, group wellbeing co-ordinator at Hastings Hotels, emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health by taking regular breaks and experiencing the benefits firsthand. She highlighted that a hotel stay can not only provide relaxation but also enhance mood, productivity, and overall mental resilience.
Overall, the survey sheds light on the significant stress and mental health challenges faced by individuals in Ireland and emphasizes the importance of taking time away to prioritize mental wellbeing. By acknowledging the impact of stress and taking proactive steps to manage it, individuals can improve their overall quality of life and mental resilience.
