August is National Wellness Month:
10 everyday habits that secretly increase stress
•August 5, 2026•
by Lauren Edwards
Community Outreach Coordinator at Virginia Recovery Centers
August is National Wellness Month, a time dedicated to prioritizing healthy habits and finding ways to improve overall well-being. While many people associate stress with major life events, such as work pressures, financial challenges, or personal struggles, everyday habits can also quietly contribute to feelings of tension, exhaustion, and burnout.
The good news is that small changes can make a meaningful difference. By recognizing common behaviors that may be increasing stress levels, it becomes easier to replace them with healthier routines that support mental, emotional, and physical wellness. Here are 10 everyday habits that may be adding unnecessary stress to your life (and what you can do instead).
1. Using alcohol to relax after a long day