Not all stress is bad. Sometimes it can help us to manage challenge (like focusing for an exam). But there are moments when it makes things more difficult or seems overwhelming.
There’s no need to worry about feeling stressed. There are easy ways to manage these emotions.
Stressful situations prompt a fight or flight response. This is where we either challenge or run away from a perceived threat. Our bodies release the hormones cortisol and adrenaline (vital when we’re in danger).
Usually, we feel stressed when we don’t think we can cope with something. This could be struggling with schoolwork, falling out with friends, or a particularly big change in your life.
Physical reactions often give us the first clue that someone is feeling stressed. This can include tiredness, headaches or an upset stomach. You may also behave differently.
For example, you might:
Check in with a parent, carer or trusted adult to talk about how you’re doing. Talk to them about your concern.
Together, you can:
You could also try some of the ideas below.
>> Useful for finding feelings of calm.
Adding this exercise into your daily routine can help in times of stress.
>> Useful for distracting from stressful thoughts.
Try taking a walk outside when you face a stressful situation. Leave any technology behind and focus on your surroundings. What do you see, smell, hear and touch? How does this make you feel?
If stressful thoughts return, that’s OK. Take a moment to feel it before returning your focus to what’s around you. The process should help move your attention away from the cause of stress.
>> Useful for understanding how to respond to stressful situations.
No one can feel calm all the time. But we can work on reacting to stressful events in a balanced way. Try using the following activity, which looks at how different states of mind (emotional, reasonable, and wise) influence us.
Both emotion and logic have an important place in our lives. But when we feel stressed, our emotions can take over. You can do the following exercise with a parent, carer or trusted adult. Together, you can: