Stress is the feeling of being under too much mental or emotional pressure. Short periods of stress are fine and can be useful, motivating people to take action. However, long periods of stress can lead to physical and mental health problems.
Causes of stress:
There are many different types of stress facing young people. Some of the most common causes are:
- Illness or injury
- Bereavement
- Relationship difficulties
- Family difficulties
- Falling out with friends
- Being bullied
- Exams and deadlines
- Being a carer
- Sexuality
Different people can cope with different levels of stress in different ways
Signs of stress:
Someone does not have to have all of these things to be suffering from long term stress.
| Physical | Mental | Behaviour |
| Headaches | Worrying about the future | Crying |
| Sweating | Imagining the worst | Eating more or less |
| Stomach and digestive problems | Being forgetful | Biting your nails |
| Muscle tension or pain | Not concentrating | Avoiding others |
| Feeling tired or dizzy | Feeling irritable | Sleep problems |
| Dry mouth | Feeling low | Rushing things |
| Shortness of breath | Things going over and over in your mind | Drinking or smoking more |
| Sexual problems | Making mistakes | Getting angry |
Tips to manage stress:
1) Exercise
2) Spend time with family, friends or other social groups.
3) Eat well. Small, frequent and healthy food keeps your blood sugar levels up.
4) Avoid unhealthy habits- eating more/ drinking to excess or using alcohol as a crutch is not a long term solution to feeling stressed.
5) Have some Me time! Focus on at least one positive every day.
6) Have realistic expectations of yourself.
7) Laugh! Watch a film/comedy show you know will make you laugh.
8) Prioritise and organise.
9) Ask for help
