Stress Awareness Month 2025: How we Tackle Stress at FindAUniversity
At FindAUniversity, we're passionate about creating a workplace that not only recognises the impact of stress but also actively supports positive mental health. Through open conversations, flexible working, and wellbeing initiatives, we believe that small steps can make a big difference. We understand that the higher education sector is both challenging and constantly evolving, which is why prioritising your mental health is more important than ever.
This month, we’ve invited colleagues from across FAU to share their personal strategies for managing stress – from daily routines to creative outlets and mindful habits. We hope their tips spark some ideas you might want to try for yourself.
How do we manage stress at FindAUniversity?
“If it’s been a tough day, I’ve really found nothing works better than just throwing yourself into some exercise. Run, swim, gym: whatever it is. It helps me focus on what I’m doing in the present moment, laugh at scenarios that seemed scary earlier, and I find it gets my brain generating ideas for how to approach things I’m thinking about.”
- Dougal MacKenzie, Head of Client Services
"I have a habit of getting swept up in what I'm doing so having a regular time I go for lunch has helped me to take a break from the screen and reset. Also, I find that talking through an issue helps me organise my own thoughts. Personally, I'm also a massive reader, so outside of work, getting lost in a fictional world helps me unwind and focus on something else."
- Sarah Hancock, Senior Client Services Manager
"I try to manage stress by getting outside and moving my body- especially with Big Nev (My dog) trotting alongside me. Spending time with my favourite people and enjoying a good slice of cake always lifts my mood. I also try to put things into perspective, write it all down, and remind myself what really matters. Educating myself about whatever's causing the stress helps me feel more aware of my emotions and more in control. I'm also learning to recognise when to say no or ask for help when I need it."
- Somaia Hoyle, International Sales Manager
"It’s really important for me to keep my evenings and weekends fun and really make the most of them. I try my best to keep up with my hobbies, the cinema, reading and trying new recipes throughout the week as well. Somedays I just want to curl up and have a massive nap after work, and that is ok too, but I feel keeping my time outside work fun keeps me motivated and happy. "
- Taru Medha, Senior Content Writer
"Regular exercise and getting outdoors is my go-to for managing stress. Living in Stockholm means I’m lucky to have nature reserves, forests, and water all around. It makes it easy to clear my head and reset, even with a walk or some time by the water."
- Gareth Thornley, Senior Business Development Manager
"For short term stress (i.e. important meetings, presentations etc.) preparation is key. The more well prepared I am, the more relaxed I feel. Breathing exercises can also be an effective way of calming nerves.For longer term stress (i.e. mounting deadlines, spells of increased workload etc.) exercise is my go-to. A lunchtime walk, 5-aside with mates or just spending 10 minutes stretching after work...it all helps to ease any lingering stress that may have built through the day."
- Jack Surtees, Junior Insight Executive
Supporting staff wellbeing at FindAUniversity
At FindAUniversity, we know that wellbeing isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach and it’s something we prioritise year round. That’s why we offer a range of flexible initiatives to support mental health, reduce stress and encourage a healthy work–life balance.
Our monthly Fikas (inspired by the Swedish tradition) – short, relaxed catch-ups over a coffee, whether in-person or online – and offer Life Days, which give employees the option to take time off for big life moments like house moves or weddings without dipping into their annual leave.
We also provide a selection of board games and books in the office, which staff are welcome to enjoy during breaks or after hours. Our outdoor court area is a great space to relax, enjoy some fresh air, or have lunch with colleagues. To help foster connection and unwind outside of work, we regularly encourage after-work social activities like games nights and informal meetups.
Looking to ease the pressure in your postgraduate recruitment? Chat with our team – we’re here to help.
You may also like...
Pulse: When do audiences want to start a UK Masters?
Understanding the domestic and international pipeline keeps you a step ahead in student recruitment. What does our Pulse data reveal about the shape of it?
Maximising the Impact of Your Advertising with UTM Tracking
Discover how our UK advertising package uses automated UTM tracking to effortlessly measure student engagement. No manual setup needed - get clear insights and optimise your marketing impact today!