STRESS TIPS for TEENS

• Exercise and eat regularly.

• Avoid excess caffeine intake which can increase feelings of anxiety and agitation.

• Don't use illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

• Learn relaxation exercises (abdominal breathing and muscle relaxation techniques).

• Develop assertiveness training skills.  (Say No without feeling guilty) 

• Rehearse and practice situations which cause stress. (Presentation at school / college, interview )

• Learn practical and effective coping skills.  (break  large tasks like revision into smaller bite sized chunks)

• Talk to an understanding adult

• Decrease negative self talk.  (listen to yourself – negative self talk and beliefs are stressful – do a reality check with a friend – you may be surprised that her/his view of you is different to yours!)

• Learn to feel good about doing something well rather than demanding perfection from yourself and others.

• Take a break from stressful situations. ( listen to music, talk to a friend, draw or spend time with your pet to reduce stress.)

• Laugh!

• Build a network of friends (who can support you and vice versa)

• Keep a journal  (write all your thoughts and feelings in it every night and get them out of your system)

• Visit STRESSWORX to learn self help strategies