Stress is and will continue to be a part of your life. It is
a natural physical and mental response which is actually designed to help us
cope with issues we face. Additionally,
when we are stressed our body produces chemicals that raise our heart rate and
blood pressure. Stress can be positive, for example, by keeping you alert when
the concern of danger is present. The opposite, occurs when someone faces one
problem after another with no relief in between or time to recover from the
first issue.
So what are the "giants" causing our youth stress? Maybe they are in a single family home and have
been forced to take on more responsibility then would typically be expected of
them; forcing them to miss out on experiences with their friends. Violence, bullying,
physical, mental or sexual abuse are all definite causes of stress for our
young adults. Additionally, the pressure
of young relationships & dating, school and worrying about exams, being competitive,
or trying to live up to the expectations of others can add stress to their
daily routine as well.
When stress continues without a period of relaxation your
body can become distressed. Distress is a condition which leads to headaches,
upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, chest pain, and eating too much or too
little. Other emotional symptoms of
distress include:
~ Easily pushed to anger ~ Anxious all the time, high anxiety ~ Constantly frustrated and moody ~Increase frequency of crying ~ Low self esteem ~ Not sleeping ~ Lack of concentration
Often times people deal with stress by using alcohol,
tobacco, or drugs. In reality, these
substances do not relax the body but instead keep it in a stressed state and
cause more physical harm.The behavior that is usually demonstrated by a stressed young person can often times be misunderstood, mislabeled and misdiagnosed. Adults and care givers must identify the source and provide creative solutions which will ignite the talent within our youth and not stomp out their flames.
There are ideas proven to relieve stress that "giants" in your life may cause. Try some of these suggestions and
see if the stress in your life is reduced.
- Speak to a trustworthy person or counselor. Talk about it. Don't hold it in.
- Try to escape the stress for a length of time every day. Read, journal or pray to take your mind to a place of peace. You can also join a local youth group or mentor program.
- Try to create balance between your responsibilities at home and school and having fun.
- Exercise reduces tension in your mind and muscles
- LAUGH....a lot!
Dr. Dee Carter
Supportive links:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/support-groups/MH00002
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