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As a teen, it is important to be ready to manage life’s challenges in a healthy way if you want to grow in an ever-changing and uncertain world. Stress is a part of life and everyone experiences it. It is a response to challenges, events, or pressures. It may include things like difficult decisions, impending deadlines, social anxiety, or exam pressures.
Stress influences mood and can lead to physical discomfort. Stress management for teens is important to help them control their feelings. It will lead to better health, and growth, as well as improve relationships. However, before taking action, it is essential to know the signs of stress in your teenager.
Even though some stress is acceptable, too much of it can be overwhelming. Too much stress can affect learning, sleep, and thinking, and it can interfere with your child enjoying life. Parents need to look for the signs of stress as they can be seen in many ways in your teen.
Even though teens can be moody naturally, a stressed-out teen may be more short-tempered or irritable than normal.
Behavioural issues often occur when your child is stressed out. It may include skipping school, not leaving the house, and constantly talking back. High levels of stress can be the reason for sudden changes in behaviour.
Your teen may face trouble falling asleep, sleeps more than usual, or complains about feeling tired all the time.
Stress can also make your child neglect their responsibilities. If they suddenly start forgetting their obligations or procrastinating more than usual, stress can be the reason.
Stress may lead to your teen eating too less or too much.
Many times, stress appears as a physical symptom. Signs like stomachaches and headaches are often reported in teens who feel stressed.
Here is how you can teach your teen to manage stress:
We all know that good nutrition is important to stay healthy. But only a few people realise that eating well also keeps our mood steady and alert throughout the day. Proper nutrition will help your teen feel energetic, strong, and able to manage stress, concentrate and clear the mind. Avoid sugary and greasy foods and eat more vegetables, whole grains, and fruits to keep you more focused.
Sleep is important for emotional and physical well-being. According to experts, teenagers require 8 to 10 hours of sleep a night. Having enough sleep can help your teen feel more energetic, alert, and positive. Sleep should be a priority to manage stress.
Physical activity and exercise are important to relieve stress for teens as well as adults. It improves mood and offers your child a sense of achievement. Exercise takes the mind off stress and burns off the stress hormone i.e. cortisol and helps relax the body. It can be any physical activity from a bike ride to a stroll in the park.
It can be difficult for a teen to manage stress alone. Talk to a teacher, parent, or some other trusted adult regarding what is stressing out. It may help you find new ways to manage stress. Many times just telling your problem to someone can instantly make you feel good. It may require some encouragement to help your teen open up about their problems.
Similar to adults, teens need to do stuff that makes them happy. It can be continual hours of listening to music or free time to play or creating some crafts. Relaxation and fun are different for everyone. Encourage your teen to find a balance between free time and their favorite activities. Also, help your teen look for an activity that quiets their mind in the heat of a moment and it will serve them well now and in the future as well.
Getting outside and spending some time in nature is a great thing to do when it comes to stress management for teens. It is a helpful way to improve overall well-being and relieve stress. Research has found that people living in places with more greenery have less stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s also a great way to absorb more natural vitamin D.
According to research, expressing your feelings in writing can help lower mental stress and improve overall well-being. Research has also found that writing about positive feelings like what you are proud or grateful for, can help reduce signs of depression and anxiety.
Mindfulness and meditation will help your teen relax and reduce stress. The best thing about meditation is that you don’t have to do it for too long. Mindfulness is all about being present and not thinking about yesterday’s regret or tomorrow’s challenges.
If you feel like you need a neutral adult to listen and coach you through some teenage challenges or struggles, send us an email at hello@frolicforlife.com to arrange a FREE consultation with our Teen Coach.