Summer brings respite from the pressures of high school, but the stress of the new school year is just around the corner. School life includes the pressure to academically excel, the fear of not being accepted by peers or attractive to members of the opposite sex, living up to the unrealistic standards of Madison Avenue, body-image issues, discovering strengths and coping with weaknesses, and the list goes on. School is much more than the three R’s, and while we teach our children skills to help them academically succeed, too often they learn to cope with their other pressures on their own – which often leads to foolish and destructive behaviors – from taking drugs to developing eating orders. .
While some of these choices and coping mechanisms are best addressed by a professional, the following are some practical tips for teens to follow that may help them have a less stressful time in school:
- Engage in positive self-talk. How you think really does dictate how you feel and act.
- Exercise - yes, it really helps. Even if you are not an athlete, a gym membership may be perfect. (It is a good place to socialize, too.)
- Reduce your caffeine. Starbucks and Red Bull may be popular, but they can increase anxiety levels.
- Don’t hate the body you were born with, but look for creative ways to change clothing or hair styles that will encourage you to like yourself.
- Make a commitment to eating healthier. Reduce those carbohydrates!
Written by Evelyn Wenzel, LCSW, CAP
5728 Major Blvd., Suite 267
Orlando, FL 32819
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