Stress Management Tips and Tricks By: Rayna Moiz

Most adolescents are no stranger to the feeling of stress. Be it from overwhelming schoolwork, problems with family and friends, or just a tiring day, it is vital that teens learn how to best deal with the emotion. If not, you run the risk of developing unhealthy coping mechanisms, which can range from self-harm to substance abuse. So when you feel a sudden buildup of stress, what exactly should you do? Consider some of the advice below!

1) Get some exercise

Physical activity is a well known reliever of stress. This is because, when you exercise your body, your brain releases endorphins, chemicals associated with a ‘feel-good’ state of mind. As such, playing your favorite sport in your free time is a sure way to improve your mental health, but health experts also recommend trying other exercise forms, like pilates and yoga. These workouts combine stretching and breathing exercises to relax muscles and center your attention, allowing you to feel more serene. Looking for something more accessible? Try taking a walk after a long day to get your endorphins going.

2) Making time for hobbies

On the weekdays, it feels as though homework and studying consume most of teens’ after-school time. While it is important to get your work done, it’s equally important to prevent it from impeding your mental health. This is why doctors recommend taking 15-20 minutes out of your after-school routine and dedicate it to a hobby. Some activities associated with stress-relief include knitting/crocheting, art, and solving puzzles. These activities focus your attention on the immediate task at hand, taking your mind off any worries.

3) Start a journal

Expressive writing is widely recognized as an effective relaxant for its ability to help people identify exactly what is troubling them. Try it out for yourself: on an especially tense day, open up a journal and write down how you’re feeling and why. Repeat this whenever you start to feel overwhelmed or panicked, and patterns will begin to manifest. Getting all of your feelings out on paper rather than bottling them up inside is an excellent way to cope, preventing burnout and chronic anxiety. By noticing themes in your writing, you’ll be able to determine the root of the problem. Be it a certain situation, person, or thought, acknowledging the issue is the first step in working to reduce the effect of those stressors in your life.

What is perhaps the most crucial part of safely dealing with stress is that most everyone encounters some form of it during their life; about 76% of Americans, in fact. While it may feel insurmountable if you’re going through a harsh period of life, it is an obstacle that can be overcome. Intentionally setting time to focus on your mental health is the simplest way to beat it. For those who believe they may have anxiety disorder, dealing with times of crisis, or need someone to consult for further advice, call the Anxiety Hotline at 866-903-3787.