Ever told someone that you feel stressed out?  If so, you’re not alone. We experience stress every day, while driving, while in school, at work and more. Relationships can be stressful. Problems can be stressful. Life events like divorce and financial woes can be stressful. When stress starts to build up, it can lead to depression, heart disease, ulcers and other health problems, according to the National Library of Medicine. Instead of letting this news stress you out, use it as an incentive to find healthy ways to deal with stress.

Be Positive
Seems easier said than done, right?  The truth is, developing a positive attitude can help alleviate your stress. When you’re trapped in a negative cycle of thinking, you’re going to see every little challenge and trouble in life as a bigger deal that it might be. Adjust your thinking whenever you can, making a conscious decision to be calm, collected and reasonable. Focus on problem solving and the things you can change.

Rest
Lack of sleep can affect your mood and your health. If you’re not getting enough sleep, you’re probably feeling additional stress. Set a firm bedtime and stick to it. Keep your bedroom peaceful and avoid doing things before bed that could stimulate you. If you know that reading a certain website or watching a certain show gets you riled up, save that for the morning.

Work Out
You don’t need to become a gym rat right away. But you do need to get moving. Fresh air and light activity can help you deal with your stress. Sometimes just clearing your head can make problems seem much more manageable. Regular physical activity also makes your body feel better and makes it easier to sleep at night.

Avoid Unhealthy Coping Strategies
Womenshealth.gov recommends avoiding unhealthy stress relievers like drinking too much alcohol, using drugs, smoking, or overeating. These activities often lead to further stress, through complications of the activity or simply making you feel bad. Lean on your friends and family instead of turning to substances. Consider taking on a hobby or just doing something that feels good, like meditation, getting a massage, taking a long bath or watching some mindless television.

Talk to Your Doctor
Sometimes you can’t beat stress alone. Chronic stress that you feel unable to escape from may require help from a doctor or mental health counselor. If you need to talk to your health care provider, take comfort in knowing that you’re not alone in this, and that you’re brave for recognizing the need for help.

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Managing Stress in School

How were your high school days? Chances are, even if you loved high school, you know someone who didn’t. The teen years can be stressful for kids in school. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, teens are especially at risk for developing self-destructive behaviors. As a parent, you have the influence to help your teens manage stress and enjoy school. Learn how to guide your kids through these high-stress years.

Homework Stress
According to Girls Health, stress can lead to more serious problems including eating disorders and drug abuse. For teens in school, homework can often be the most tangible, obvious source of stress. Help kids develop good time management and study skills. Use the family calendar to keep track of big projects and assignments, and offer positive reinforcement when your teen completes tasks on time. Always give your teen a quiet environment to finish homework and study at home.

Sports Stress
Teens involved with group sports may feel stress and pressure from peers, coaches and the desire to win. While healthy competition is great—it can also become toxic if your child is simply stressing out about sports all the time. If your child no longer seems to be enjoying sports or acts irritable or withdrawn during sports seasons, sit down for a serious talk about managing your child’s commitment to sports. Focus on your child’s individual growth and achievements more than winning a game.

Peer Stress
High school social politics are a delicate matter. You may be surprised to find that one day your child’s best friend becomes her worst enemy. Peer stress can come from friends, rivals and bullies. It can also come from your child herself. Self-esteem issues can flare up when teens compare themselves to peers. Relate stories of your youth to your teen and make yourself available to talk about friend issues. Never blow off your teen’s peer stress as “drama.” Even small arguments can cause your teen major stress.

Stress Relief Tips

• Physical fitness can help teens cope with stress. If your child isn’t involved in sports, encourage her to get active.
• Journaling can help teens work through stress. Encourage your child to write in a private journal or even keep a diary on the computer.
• Socializing helps teens wind down from school life. Give your child the freedom to socialize with friends.
• Adequate sleep allows teens to recharge and approach busy school days with energy and focus.

The LiveFree! Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition is a coalition of members of the community who strive to address the issues of alcohol and drug use in Pinellas County. Visit us online today to see how you can get involved in this cause that is so important to our community.

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