Stress is a normal part of life and something that everybody experiences. For children, the pressures of school and their social life can often be overwhelming and be a cause of stress.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, try these tips for coping with stress:
- Make sure you are getting enough sleep and eating healthy food.
- Take a deep breath. Relaxation exercises can help get rid of stress – The easiest one to do is to breathe. Inhale (breathe in) slowly and deeply through your nose, and then exhale (breathe out) slowly through your mouth.
- Imagine your favourite place in the world. Use your senses to think about this place – hear and feel what is around you. Stay in your favourite place for a few minutes.
- Spend time with your trusted adults talking about how you feel, especially if something is troubling you.
- If you are someone who worries about things help yourself by being prepared and ready for upcoming events.
- Remind yourself of times you've dealt with a similar issue and how you managed when things worked out well.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you are unsure – parent/ carer, teachers, family members, or other trusted adults will be there to listen.
- Exercise can help you wind down and de-stress. It can also help you get a better night’s sleep.
- Express your feelings through art – drawing or even colouring-in can sometimes help.
- Turn devices off an hour before bed and read or simply relax without a device.
- Spend time outside or doing fun things that you enjoy offline.
If you are feeling anxious, worried or even sad you can ring the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.
Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.