Finding your Calm: Stress Management Tips for Teens
Life as a teenager can be a rollercoaster of emotions, from juggling school assignments and extracurricular activities to navigating social pressures and personal growth. It's no wonder that you might feel stressed. We’ll dive into some stress management tips that can help you find your calm!
Photo by Elisa Ventur on Unsplash downloaded 11/8/23
Why Is Stress Management So Important for Teens?
First things first, let's talk about why stress management matters. Stress is a natural response to challenging situations, but when it lingers or gets out of control, it can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Learning how to manage stress during your teenage years sets you up with valuable skills for the future, and helps you build healthy habits.
Breathe, Just Breathe
You might be thinking “yeah, I know how to breathe, thanks though”, but what we’re talking about is mindfulness breathing. When you feel stressed out, or are needing a moment, pause, close your eyes, and take a deep breath for four counts, then exhale for a count of four, and repeat this a few times. Another image you can have is filling up a balloon with your intake of breath, and letting the balloon “release” when you exhale. But, taking a moment to mindfully breathe is a quick and easy way to calm your nervous system, and refocus your mind!
Move Your Body
Exercise is a fantastic stress-buster. Whether it's dancing, jogging, doing yoga, or playing your favorite sport, physical activity releases feel-good endorphins. It's like a built-in mood lifter. You don’t even have to go to the gym! You can simply take your dog on a walk, or, just take a walk in nature!
Photo by Marcos Paulo Prado on Unsplash downloaded 11/8/23
Keep a Stress Diary
Start a journal to jot down your thoughts and feelings when you're stressed. This practice can help you identify patterns and triggers, giving you a clearer picture of what's causing your stress. Plus, it's a great way to vent and reflect!
Time Management
Procrastination can lead to last-minute stress, and we’re all a little guilty of sometimes leaving things to the last minute. Creating a schedule or to-do list and breaking your tasks into manageable chunks can be a way to keep organized, but helps you stay on task so you’re not as stressed.
Share Your Feelings
Don't bottle up your emotions. Talk to someone you trust—whether it's a friend, a family member, or a counselor. Expressing your feelings can be liberating.
Mindfulness and Meditation
These techniques are your ticket to staying in the present moment. Practice mindfulness by paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Meditation can help you relax and reduce stress. There are many apps and online resources to get you started. One of our favorite meditation devices in a MUSE meditation! But, there are videos, and apps that you can follow along with to help jump start your meditation journey!
Stay Connected
Surround yourself with friends and loved ones who support and care about you. Social connections are so important for maintaining good mental health. Lean on your loved ones when you need to talk things out.
Set Realistic Goals
Don't be too hard on yourself! Set achievable goals, and remember that it's okay to make mistakes. Learning from them is what life's all about. And listen, you’re still a teenager, and figuring things out! Set realistic goals for yourself, and ask for help if you can’t make those goals!
Photo by Sarah Brown on Unsplash downloaded 11/8/23
Deep Dive into Hobbies
Do what you love! Hobbies and interests can be excellent stress relievers. Whether it's painting, playing an instrument, or gaming, your hobbies provide an escape from the daily grind.
Take Breaks
Even when you're swamped with schoolwork, it's essential to schedule breaks. Short, regular breaks can help recharge your mind and reduce stress.
Positive Self-Talk
Be your own cheerleader! Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. It's amazing how your inner dialogue can influence your stress levels.
Seek Professional Help
If stress is getting the better of you and affecting your daily life, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional, like a therapist or counselor. They have the tools and expertise to help you cope. But, remember to be kind to yourself, seek help when needed, and always believe in your ability to overcome challenges. You've got this, and the world is full of adventures waiting for you!
Teen Counseling in Lee’s Summit Missouri
At Aspire Counseling, our therapists know how difficult it can be as a teen. There’s school, homework, tests, friends, family, extracurricular activites, and more that can add to your stress. Along with working with stress, our therapists work with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and much more.
To begin therapy with one of our amazing teen counselors, reach out today via our online form, or, give us a call at 573-328-2288 ext. 1. A member of our Client Care Team will take the time to get your teen set up with a therapist that meets their unique needs! Reach out today to begin your teens journey with mental health.
