Lifeline South West Victoria is encouraging businesses, schools and community groups to take it easy this Friday, July 25.

Stress Down Day is an event held by Lifeline to create awareness around the importance of reducing the burden of stress on the community. 

On Stress Down Day everyone is encouraged to reduce their stress levels by laughing, de-stressing and enjoying fun activities, while raising funds for Lifeline Crisis Support and Suicide Prevention services. 

Workplaces, school and community groups can get involved and have fun by helping raise funds through the power of laughter. 

Lifeline South West Victoria manager of community engagement Chloe Brian invited the local community to host a morning tea or hold a worst dad joke competition.

“The theme this year is laughing,” Miss Brian said.

“Doing anything that makes you laugh is good. If you can keep your stress levels low your happiness increases.”

Miss Brian said laughter was beneficial for good health. “By laughing more on Stress Down Day we are preventing people from needing to call for crisis support.”

Miss Brian said schools were planning to hold casual clothes days and some office bosses would dress up in silly costumes.

Other tips on stressing down include lunchtime yoga or hand massages in the office. To be involved contact Miss Brian at Lifeline on 5559 0555 to collect a registration form and a stress less resource pack.