One step, one breath.
When you’re a teenager you’re constantly juggling academics, relationships, family and figuring out who you are. Having to simultaneously do all of these can cause stress which leads to distress which can take a serious toll on your mental health. It is important to take a step back and take a deep breath in.
What is Stress?
Stress is your body’s natural response to overwhelming, challenging, and over stimulating situations. It is perfectly normal and everyone gets affected by it on some level. There are instances when stress can be a positive thing. Remember; if you’re nervous it’s because you care, and that’s a beautiful thing. There’s a reason our body has this reaction and it’s not always about overcoming the stress, but more so not allowing it to overcome you. Intense levels of stress is when this natural reaction begins having negative effects on your physical and psychological well being.
What is Distress?
Similar to stress (not only with its name) distress is initially an intense level of stress. It usually doesn’t happen on its own but happens because of built up stress. It occurs because of built up pressure. You can often feel anxious, trapped and even hopeless. Distress can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety or depression and can detrimentally affect your physical health, making you feel tired, sleepy, and sick. Unlike regular stress, distress is harmful and can have a serious impact on your everyday life.
Managing Stress
First of all, identify what’s causing your stress. Is it school related? Are you having problems with a friend? Is it a family issue? The first step to healing is understanding why you feel that way. From there you can begin finding solutions to your issue. Meanwhile don’t underestimate the power of taking breaks every once in a while. Being overworked and burnt-out will only affect your performance for the worse. No assignment or task is more valuable than your mental well being. Remember, if you can control the outcome of something, there’s nothing to worry about; and if you can’t control the outcome of something, then there’s nothing to worry about either.
Managing Distress
If it feels like your stress has gotten to a point where you’re overwhelmed, then it might be time to ask for help. Try talking to someone you trust who may be able to help you deal with your distress. Also, try focusing on the aspects of life that you can control. Take small positive steps instead of initiating huge unprepared leaps. Remember that it is okay to take things slow and steady.
The Teenage Mind 