Teen Stress

What is STRESS?

How one's body reacts to change can be called stress. These changes can come from feelings, situations, and people. For example, going to a new school is a change that can cause stress.

Think about changes that have happened to you or will happen to you.
Stressors
Things that cause stress are called stressors. For example:

going to a new school
divorce or separation of parents
winning an award
taking a test
death of a relative
being sick


What is a stressor for you?
Is all stress bad? No!

Most people define stress as worry, tension and pressure, but all stress isn't bad. Some stress can be happy, exciting and challenging. We need stress in our lives; without it life would be dull. For example, right before a race, Mark always feels a little nervous. This stress helps Mark stay alert and prepared. Can you name a time when stress helped you stay alert and prepared?

I love dancing!
Good Stress



Not me!
Bad Stress What causes stress to be good or bad?

Our thoughts, feelings and beliefs about a situation can make stress good (pleasant) or bad (unpleasant). For example, Nicole's mother informed her that they will be moving to a new city. Moving to a new place is a stressor that will automatically cause Nicole some stress since it is a "change".

If Nicole is excited and happy about the move, then this will be considered a good stressor for her. On the other hand, if Nicole is sad and scared about the move, then this will be considered a bad stressor for her.

Situations that cause us to feel happy, excited, surprised, etc, can be called good stressors, and situations that cause us to feel sad, scared, mad, etc, can be called bad stressors.

What is a good (happy, excited, etc) stressor for you?

What is a bad (sad, scared, etc) stressor for you?

Is Too much stress bad?

Too much stress can have a negative affect on one's body, mind, and feelings. How you handle your stress has a lot to do with your health. When stress becomes too frustrating and lasts for long periods, it can become harmful distress. Recognizing the early signs of stress and doing something about it can improve the quality of your life. If you have signs of stress very often ... WATCH OUT!


SOME SIGNS OF STRESS
Physical (body) Mental (mind) Emotional (feelings)
Headaches
Nervousness
Rashes
Stomachaches
Fast heartbeat
Perspiration
Increased urination Lack of Concentration
Forgetfulness
Drop in school performance
Unable to study
Carelessness Bored
Anger outbursts
Nightmares
Sad/depressed
Scared
Withdrawn
Fighting

What is a sign of stress for you?

How do you balance the stress in your life?

Stay aware of your signs of stress. If you are having signs of stress, follow the tips below to avoid stress overload (distress). Since stress will be with us the rest of our lives, it is important to know some ways of dealing with stress.
Ways to handle too much stress


Take deep breaths/Practice deep breathing exercises
Watch your thoughts/think positive
Find time to relax and cool out
Pray or read something inspirational
Visualize what you want to happen
Use pressure points to reduce headaches
Talk problems over with a friend or counselor
Don't dwell on your weaknesses
Feel proud of your accomplishments
Exercise daily
Do muscle tension relaxation exercises
Punch a pillow, scream or kick a can
Prepare for tests early
Eat a nutritious meal or snack
Take one thing at a time
Set realistic goals
Stop worrying about things that may never happen
Learn from your mistakes
Forgive yourself and others
Get involved with things you like to do
Make time for fun
Do something for others
Use the four steps to problem solving:
Brainstorm solution
Think of the consequences
Choose a solution
Evaluate your choice