Stress Management in the PR Industry - How to Stay Cool Under Pressure

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work in the PR industry? Let me open your eyes—it’s nothing short of starring into your own action-packed movie. One minute, you’re on top of the world, like Iron Man after saving the day; the next, you’re scrambling to fix a crisis faster than Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible. It’s thrilling and so rewarding, yes, but the constant pressure can sometimes leave even the coolest PR pro feeling like they’re running on caffeine and adrenaline.

In fact, a recent survey found that Dubai is the most overworked city in the world, with about 24% of the population working more than 48 hours a week—a statistic that hits close to home for those in high-pressure industries like PR (The National). So how do you stay cool when everything seems to be going off-script? Let’s dive into some practical strategies to help you stay grounded.

Know how to differentiate between urgent and non-urgent tasks

In PR, everything can feel like it’s urgent. You have multiple deadlines, demanding clients, and unexpected media requests—all needing your immediate attention. The truth is, not every task is “Code Red.” Learning how to prioritize is crucial for staying on top of things. Start by sorting tasks based on urgency and importance. Being able to distinguish between the two helps prevent the overwhelming feeling that comes from trying to do everything at once.

Saying “no” in PR can feel impossible, especially in a service industry where the goal is to keep clients happy. But trying to say “yes” to every request, every project and every email will only lead to burnout. Setting boundaries is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of a professional who knows their limits and manages their workload effectively.

Take a break

It sounds counterintuitive, especially when deadlines are looming, but don’t underestimate the power of a good break. It’s like hitting pause on Netflix when the plot gets too intense. Step away from the screen, take a breath, and come back ready to handle the next plot twist. When you push through without a break, your stress levels rise, and your productivity often takes a hit.

Lean on your community

No one understands the stresses of PR better than others working in the same field. Building a network of colleagues, mentors, or friends within the industry can provide much-needed support when things get tough. Whether it’s sharing a laugh over a chaotic day or getting advice on managing a particularly difficult client, having people who get it can make all the difference.

Rest & refuel

Finally, never underestimate the importance of self-care. PR can be mentally and emotionally draining, so it’s crucial to recharge outside of work. Whether you’re breaking a sweat at the gym, channelling your inner Zen with meditation, catching up with friends, or binge-watching that show you swore you’d only watch one episode of, make time for what refreshes you. Taking care of your mental health is the secret weapon that keeps you resilient and ready to tackle the next PR curveball with grace (and maybe even a smile).

So, crank up “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen, because when you’re feeling recharged, nothing can stop you from being a PR superstar!

Words By: Raksha Salian, Account Executive at Atteline