Healthy coping techniques

Get plenty of sleep

 One of the most common symptoms of stress is sleep problems. A full night’s sleep helps better prepare you for the day ahead, and setting up a healthy sleep schedule has been proven to decrease stress. Teenagers need at least 8-10 hours of sleep each night to function properly the next day, but it has also been shown that one 30 minute nap during the day can quickly help your body recharge after a long day.

Eat healthy, balanced meals

 Food can help tame stress in several ways. Fruits and vegetables containing high amounts of magnesium and potassium help combat headaches, fatigue and high blood pressure, which are common effects of stress. However, when eaten in limited quantities, less healthy comfort foods, such as carbs or sugars, can also boost levels of serotonin, a brain chemical that regulates mood. 

Be active

 Physical activity can reduce fatigue and improve alertness and cognitive function, which can be beneficial after stress has exhausted your body’s energy. Running, biking and playing a sport can all help combat stress. A daily walk or a five minute aerobic exercise can also help repair your body’s physical and mental state.

Take a break

 If certain class work, social media or news events are causing you stress, step back for a bit and focus on other things. Whether it’s listening to music, watching your favorite movie with friends or curling up with a good book, finding an activity that helps you decompress will calm your thoughts and ease your mind.

Talk to others

 Sharing your problems with others is a great way to release bottled up emotions. Having a conversation with a parent, friend, doctor or counselor not only helps you be able to come to terms with your own feelings, but also allows for discussions on how to manage your stress and recognize if you need help.