Stress
Tāmitanga
Stress is an important part of what keeps us safe. We know that stress exists on a continuum - some stress is helpful, some less helpful. We can describe negative stress as the feeling of being overwhelmed or unable to cope with mental or emotional pressure. Everyone is affected by negative stress at one time or another, but with the right approach you can learn to manage stress before it takes a toll on you. Managing daily stress can also lead to a more overall positive outlook on your life and well-being.
What can help when stress is around?
Get Physical
Physical activity is one of the most effective stress busters. That doesn’t mean you have to go for a jog if you hate running. Find activities you enjoy and build them into your routine such as yoga, hiking, biking, skateboarding or walking. The best types of physical activities are those that have a social component. Whether you’re into team sports, or prefer kayaking or rollerblading with a friend or two, you’re more likely to have fun — and keep at it — if you’re being active with friends.
Get enough sleep
Between homework, activities and hanging with friends, it can be hard to get enough sleep, especially during the school week. Ideally, adolescents should get at least nine hours a night. Most teens, though, are getting less. To maximise your chance of sleeping soundly, cut back on watching TV or engaging in a lot of screen time in the late evening hours. Don’t drink caffeine late in the day and try not to do stimulating activities too close to bedtime. Read more on sleep.
Find some balance
School is important, but it’s not everything. When you plan your week, schedule time to get schoolwork done, but also schedule time to have fun. When it’s time to enjoy yourself, try not to worry about school or homework. Focus on having fun.
Get a hobby
Besides physical activities, find other hobbies or activities that bring you joy. That might be listening to music, going to the movies, learn an instrument or drawing. Make a point to keep doing these things even when you’re stressed and/or busy. This can be difficult to do but having interests that are just for you can really help how you are feeling.
Help others
Spend some time really thinking about the things you’re good at. If you are interested in supporting youth, you might volunteer at a local youth group. If you’re artistic, take a photography class and think about gifting your photos. If you enjoy sport, consider coaching a team. Helping others directs your energy away from stress and can help keep it in perspective.
Talk about it!
It’s so much easier to manage stress when you let others lend a hand. Talk to your parents, your Hub coach, your Learning Community Leader or another trusted adult. They may be able to help you find new ways to manage stress. Or they can help put you in touch with a counsellor who is trained in helping people make good choices and manage stress - that's us!