We experience Stress when pressure is put upon us, for young people this can be commonly associated with school and friendship groups.
Stress can become a problem if it overwhelms you; it can make existing mental health problems worse. It can be hard to sleep or eat when under stress which can also affect physical health.
How you might feel
- Aggressive and wound up
- Anxious and nervous
- Racing thoughts
- Constant sense of dread
- Suicidal feelings
How you might behave
- Constant worrying
- Avoiding situations and people
- Unable to concentrate
- Restless
- Crying
- Snapping at people
- Self-harming behaviors
Physical reactions you might have
- Panic attacks
- Shortness of breath
- Headaches
- Sleep troubles
- Dizziness and fainting
- Feeling sick
- Constant tiredness
Support
If a young person is suffering from stress, it is important to talk to someone they trust about the cause and work towards finding a way to manage or reduce the stress caused by it.
Different strategies work for different people but there are a few thing you can try to control pressures: Recognising common triggers will help you to figure out a cause and allow you to prepare and manage the stress it causes. For example, if homework is a weekly trigger then taking steps such as talking to your teachers about the volume and making a timetable so that you have enough time to complete it, could help.
It is also important to take regular breaks from stressful situations such as revision or exam preparation.
More self-help resources can be found on our mental health support page such as the stress bucket sheet, problem solving and self care tips.
Useful Websites
- Young Minds Charity dedicated to improving the mental health of children and young people
- The Mix Support for under 25s
- Stress Management Society Advice on how to cope with stress
- Anxiety UK Website helping those who suffer with anxiety using self help groups, email support and counseling.
Visit our Resources and Helplines page for more support – Further Resources & Helplines – Be Free YC
