Stress: What Teenagers Wish You Knew

Stress: a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances. — Merriam-Webster

Stress isn’t always bad. It’s the body’s response to external stimuli that it interprets as a threat, which can trigger the release of cortisol.

Stress can make us do things we don’t always understand. It can affect our sleep, mood, eating habits, and ability to handle everyday situations.

And stress doesn’t just affect adults. Teens and children feel it too.

I asked a few teenagers about their experiences with stress and what they wish adults understood:

*I wasn’t being lazy or hating people; I just needed space.

*I wasn’t just using it as an excuse to get out of school; I was anxious.

* Extracurriculars make us tired mentally and physically.

*My stress bubbles over and comes out as attitude, tears, anxiety, or anger.

* feel out of control, and little things hurt more because of it.

*I have a point of view too.

*I am more than my accomplishments.

* I learn how to manage my stress and emotions from you.

* It’s silly to you, but it’s my whole world.

* Social acceptance is stressful

*Not having a job does not mean I don’t have stress

*Stress affects my social battery

*My mood determines what stresses me out (it can be different every time)

It’s easy to forget that kids are born with all the big feelings we have. Their feelings don’t mature; their ability to process and manage them does.

The same way we can become so stressed and overwhelmed that we shut down or blow up at someone we love, they can too.

So stop and ask your teen:

What does stress feel like for you?

How can I help?

Sometimes, understanding comes before solutions.