About the Founder

Neal Tepel is the president and founder of LaborPress. For over 30 years, Neal was an educator and administrator within the NYC school system. He retired in 2000 as Chairperson for the Committee on Special Education, moving on to being a Public Relations and Media Consultant working with unions and businesses.

Neal also served as the Assistant to the Executive Director of AFSCME District Council 1707.

In August 2009, Neal founded LaborPress to provide a media outlet for unions and workers. Now, it is New York’s best source of daily labor news. Thousands view our articles online, scroll through our E-News, watch our videos and read LaborPress Magazine everyday.

Our readership keeps expanding and continues to have a broad base of government officials and legislators, union officers, rank and file, newspaper reporters and other news organizations, as well as community and business leaders.

Please contact us if you know of a struggle that needs a voice, a leader who needs to be recognized, a worker who has achieved the extraordinary. We are in the service of you, we put forth your stories.

April is Stress Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to recognize the daily challenges faced by workers across every industry. Whether you’re building our cities, keeping our communities safe, caring for the sick, or educating the next generation — the labor movement runs on your strength, dedication, and resilience.

At LaborPress, we’re committed to supporting all union members — not just during April, but every day of the year. This month, we’re highlighting practical stress management strategies designed to help workers in every field protect their health, build resilience, and thrive on and off the job.

Understanding the Pressures Facing Workers Today

Stress looks different depending on the job, but common triggers include:

• Long hours and heavy workloads
• Safety concerns and physically demanding tasks
• Emotional labor and caring for others
• Lack of support or resources
• Job insecurity and financial pressure

The American Psychological Association reports that chronic workplace stress can have serious consequences for mental and physical health. That’s why it’s critical to recognize it early — and take steps to manage it.

Simple Stress Management Strategies for Every Worker

You don’t need hours of free time to start managing stress. Small actions, done consistently, can make a big difference.

Quick Tips for Stress Relief:

• Take a Breathing Break: 2 minutes of deep breathing can reset your nervous system.
• Move Your Body: Even a 5-minute stretch or short walk can help release tension.
• Gratitude Moments: Pause once a day to recognize something positive.
• Mindful Transitions: Take a moment to breathe or stretch when moving from one task to another.

These small steps can fit into any workday — whether you’re on the job site, behind a desk, or out in the field.

Building Long-Term Resilience

Beyond quick fixes, building habits that protect your well-being is essential for a sustainable, rewarding career.

Here’s how:

• Set Boundaries: Protect your time outside of work. Disconnect from emails or calls when you’re off the clock whenever possible.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Sleep, nutrition, movement, and hobbies aren’t luxuries — they’re necessities.
• Lean on Your Union Community: Connecting with coworkers who understand your challenges can make a world of difference.
• Speak Up for Resources: Advocate for what you need — whether it’s better equipment, mental health support, or training opportunities.
• Invest in Growth: Attend workshops on stress management, resilience, conflict resolution, or time management.

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish — it’s an act of solidarity with your coworkers, your family, and your future.

Stress Relief Workshops: Tools for Every Worker

Across the labor movement, more unions are offering stress management workshops and wellness programs. These sessions help workers:

• Recognize early signs of burnout
• Learn emotional regulation skills
• Improve communication and teamwork
• Build stronger support networks

If your union offers a workshop — go! If not, talk to your leadership about starting one. Protecting mental health is just as important as protecting physical health on the job.

Union Leaders and Support Staff: Resources for Member Wellness

Union leaders, fund administrators, and support staff can play a vital role in promoting member wellness.

Top Recommendations:

• Daily Check-Ins: Encourage members to reflect on their well-being regularly.
• Normalize Help-Seeking: Make it clear that asking for help is a strength.
• Promote Wellness Resources: Share information about available mental health services.
• Model Healthy Habits: Leaders who prioritize their own health set the tone for everyone else.

Supporting worker wellness protects the strength and vitality of the entire union.

Celebrate Stress Awareness Month with LaborPress

This Spring, LaborPress is proud to support events like Union Leader Appreciation Luncheons across the country. These events offer union members a chance to:

• Connect with peers
• Take a break from daily pressures
• Be recognized for their incredible contributions

You deserve to be celebrated — not just in April, but every day.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Support

Stress may be part of the job, but it should never define your life.

You deserve respect, resources, and recognition. By taking simple steps toward managing stress and advocating for your well-being, you can build a healthier, happier future for yourself and the entire labor movement.

At LaborPress, we’re with you — this month and every month.

Learn more, find resources, and get involved at LaborPress.org.