Stress has been top-of-mind ever since COVID hit. But you can take another opportunity to highlight the role that flowers play in reducing stress during Stress Awareness month next month.

Stress Awareness Month, observed annually every April, was launched in 1992 by the Health Resource Network, a nonprofit health education organization consisting of physicians, health educators, health promotion experts, and other health care professionals. April is when public awareness is raised on stress, with health groups and publications highlighting causes of stress, the negative effects of stress on well-being, and ways to relieve stress.

Stress Awareness Month presents an opportunity for SAF members to promote the results of  “The Impact of Flowers on Perceived Stress Among Women,” a study conducted at the University of North Florida, which SAF commissioned. The research proves living with flowers, even just for a few days, can significantly reduce stress.

“SAF’s research on flowers and stress relief is of great interest to consumers and the media at any time, but especially given the effects of the pandemic on mental health over the last year,” said SAF CEO Kate Penn. “Stress Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity for florists to show their customers the wellness benefits of flowers and also capture local media attention.”

SAF has a suite of tools to help members capitalize on Stress Awareness Month, including social media content, sample press releases, seven promotional strategies and more.

Katie Vincent is the senior contributing editor of Floral Management.