How to Cope with Stress

Before I start I must make you all aware that I am not an expert in this field. This is purely from my experience.

For any teenager stress is a major part of your life. Whether it's a two page physics investigation due in the next day or a 15,000 word dissertation due in six weeks we have all at some point along the road gone 'eeeeeeeeek!'

Personally, I don't like talking about my feelings with my parents and I bottle things up inside me until they quite literally spill over in the form of tears, and lots of them. Which brings me onto my first point...

1) Its okay to cry!
Yes really, it has been scientifically proven to remove hormones (endorphins leucine-enkaphalin and prolactin) out of your body. By not crying your stress levels actually increase and you are more inclined to develop health issues like high blood pressure or heart problems.

2) Do speak to someone
I've already said I hate talking about my feelings to my parents but when I do get stressed out I go onto a website set up by 'ChildLine'. They are a charity run by professionals who are there anytime you need them. I write down what upset me and how I feel and send it off to one of there councillors who within 24 hours will reply and give guidance on my situations. I love 'ChildLine' and their confidentiality policy makes me trust them not to judge me. If you'd like to look at their amazing website the link is www.childline.org.uk

3) Take a break
It sounds crazy I know but when you are stressed one of the best things to do is to sit back and take a 10 minute break. During exam leave when I had all of my exams in 2 weeks my favourite thing to do was to meditate with an app called 'Headspace'. My school rector introduced me to it and I must confess I am addicted to it! www.headspace.com is an online version of what I used to get me through some of the most stressful points of my academic life. It takes 10 minutes out of your day and talks you through stages of meditation and relaxation. Give it a try and if you fall asleep then it's okay, that's what happens if you are relaxed!

4) Do some exercise
I don't use this often but I keep up an hour and a half dance class once a week to keep fit and take time out from studying. I know my friends go on a run for 10-15 minutes around their block for the same reason. It produces endorphins which make you happy and relaxed and it refocuses your brain.

5) Get some sleep
Those late nights spent with caffeine and an unfinished essay isn't actually worth it. Teenagers need on average 9 hours sleep a night so instead of messaging friends or watching Netflix do homework early and treat yourself afterwards.

6) Set Goals and To-Do Lists
It sounds so basic but at the start of every week and every day take 5 minutes and write a list of what needs done this week and then look at that and plan your days from it around pre-planned activities, like gym class or coffee date with your friends. Have a to-do list on your phone so whenever you need to add something on you can.

I hope you found this helpful and I'll see you next time!