Stress awareness month for teens
Stress has a significant impact on physical and mental health in teens.
April is Stress Awareness Month, and it's important to remember that teenagers often face a high level of stress due to external pressures in school, at home, and in their social lives. This can manifest as an increased heart rate, faster breathing, or tense muscles. Though some stress is natural and helps motivate children to get things done, too much stress can become overwhelming. As community members, healthcare providers, and parents we must provide the support and resources necessary for preteens and teenagers to cope with their stressors. Healthy coping mechanisms include physical exercise, talking to others about worries, or finding activities they enjoy.
The Impact of Stress on Teens
Stress has a significant impact on physical and mental health in teens. This includes physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, stomach aches, and irritability, as well as emotional symptoms like depression and anxiety. Additionally, chronic or extreme levels of stress can have long-term effects on the developing brain. For example, high cortisol levels associated with long-term stress have been linked to decreased cognitive performance in teens.
Managing Stress in Teens
There are a variety of factors that can contribute to stress in teens. These include school demands and frustrations, negative thoughts or feelings about themselves, changes in their bodies, problems with friends, unrealistic expectations, strife at home, strained sibling relationships (including sibling bullying), illness in the family, and financial stress on the family.
It is important for parents to recognize the signs of stress in their teens and help them develop healthy coping skills. This includes getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring joy. Additionally, parents should encourage their teens to talk openly about their feelings and provide support when needed.
As a parent, it is important to acknowledge your teen’s emotions and fears and take them seriously by listening. Avoid labelling your teen as "shy" or "anxious" and use positive reinforcement. Show love and empathy, make time for daily talks, promote healthy habits such as diet and exercise, and build a strong connection with your teens. If more help is needed, seek out professional support from a pediatrician or trusted psychologist/counselor. School counselors can also provide additional assistance.
Stress Awareness Month serves as an important reminder for all of us to be mindful about the impact of stress on teenagers. By recognizing the signs of excessive stress and providing resources for managing it appropriately, we can help create a healthier environment for our young people so that they can thrive emotionally during this challenging time in their lives. Together, let’s make sure our teenagers know that they are not alone in this struggle.
Sources
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
American Psychological Association
CDC Coping with Stress