As Stress Awareness Week draws to a close, we’re reminding busy PAs and EAs of the importance of stepping back, recognising the signs of stress and making time for their own mental wellbeing.
International Stress Awareness Week takes place from 2โ6 November 2026, encouraging individuals and organisations to recognise the impact of stress and create healthier working environments. For PAs and EAs, who often spend their working days managing other people’s priorities, it’s an important reminder that their own wellbeing matters just as much.
What is the theme of Stress Awareness Week 2026?
Organised by the International Stress Management Association (ISMA), this year’s theme is ‘Shaping the Future of Stress and Wellbeing: Rehumanising the Workplace’.
The campaign highlights the importance of putting people back at the centre of workplace culture, encouraging employers to create environments where employees feel supported, valued and able to discuss their mental health openly.
You can find out more about the campaign and access resources on the official ISMA website.
Why is Stress Awareness Week important for PAs and EAs?
From managing complex diaries and last-minute requests to supporting senior executives, PAs and EAs regularly juggle competing priorities. While working under pressure is often part of the role, prolonged stress without adequate recovery can affect both physical and mental health.
The challenge is recognising when a busy period has become something more serious.
Feeling constantly overwhelmed, struggling to concentrate, becoming unusually irritable or finding it difficult to switch off outside working hours can all be warning signs.
Our guide to Executive Assistant burnout and protecting your wellbeing explores these signs and offers practical advice for managing demanding periods.
Five ways busy PAs and EAs can protect their mental wellbeing
Looking after your mental health doesn’t necessarily require major lifestyle changes. Small, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference.
- Take regular breaks: Step away from your desk, get some fresh air or enjoy lunch without checking emails. Even short breaks can help you reset during a demanding day.
- Set clear boundaries: Agree realistic working hours with your executive and avoid responding to non-urgent messages outside those hours.
- Recognise your achievements: Before finishing for the weekend, reflect on what you’ve accomplished rather than focusing entirely on what’s still on your to-do list.
- Make time to switch off: Whether it’s exercise, reading, spending time with friends or simply relaxing, give yourself permission to enjoy activities unrelated to work.
- Speak up when workloads become unmanageable: If competing priorities are creating constant pressure, have an honest conversation with your manager about what can be delegated, delayed or reprioritised.
For more ideas, read our article on how to detach from work to preserve your mental wellbeing.
Make wellbeing a priority beyond Stress Awareness Week
As the working week comes to an end, take a moment to acknowledge everything you’ve achieved and give yourself permission to recharge.
But remember, managing workplace stress shouldn’t fall entirely on employees. Employers also have a responsibility to address excessive workloads, encourage healthy boundaries and create supportive working environments.
Being a great PA or EA doesn’t mean being available around the clock. Looking after yourself is just as important as looking after everyone else.
