Tips to Recognizing Stress in Your Teen
Look for physical effects of stress in your teen
- Physical manifestations of stress can include frequent headaches, stomachaches, muscle pain, and chronic fatigue.
- Intense, immediate reactions to stress can include rapid breathing, sweating, urgent need to urinate, or diarrhea.
- Signs of physical abuse or drug use.
Three signs your teen is under too much stress
- Their grades may drop.
- They show an inability to complete activities.
- They can't concentrate on their homework.
Three changes in your teen's behavior caused by stress
- Becoming quiet and withdrawn.
- More frequent crying or feelings of hopelessness.
- Chronic feelings of worry and nervousness.
Monitor your teen's stress level if you see these changes
- Difficulty sleeping or increased frequency of nightmares.
- Inability or unwillingness to eat regularly.
Teach stress management techniques to your teen
- Teach your teen positive problem solving and practical ways to cope with stress.
- Introduce your teen to alternative ways to relax such as meditation or yoga.
- Help your teen develop their assertiveness and self-esteem if the source of their stress is a bully.
Avoid causing your teen more stress
- Show your teen that they don't always have to win.
- Praise them when they do their best, even if they come in second.
- Don't give them reason to worry about situations that they cannot control e.g. family financial problems.
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