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Teenagers on a roller coaster ride enjoying life and not stressed out.

Coping Skills for Stressed Out Teenagers

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Helping you find balance in a crazy world

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My teenager is stressed out!

It's very hard to watch your stressed out teenager suffer.  Read on to find out the ways stress shows itself in teens (some of them will surprise you!) I also give you my list of the best coping skills for a stressed out teen.

Stress in Teenagers Can Look Different Then Stress in Adults

Stress is a normal part of life, but too much stress can be harmful. Teenagers are especially susceptible to stress, as they are going through a lot of physical, emotional, and social changes.

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Symptoms of stress in teenagers:

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  • Physical symptoms: headaches, stomachaches, nausea, fatigue, changes in appetite, sleep problems, muscle tension, increased heart rate, sweating, shortness of breath.

  • Behavioral changes: irritability, anger, withdrawal from friends and family, changes in school performance, substance abuse, risk-taking behaviors.

  • Emotional changes: anxiety, worry, sadness, hopelessness, feeling overwhelmed, difficulty concentrating, difficulty making decisions.

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Some studies have shown that stress in teenagers leads to greater cortisol release then in adults and teens can experience more substantial cognitive impairment than adults when stressed. In addition, a prolonged stress response in teenagers can lead to mental health disorders in adulthood.

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Teens and parents on a hike in nature.

I'd love to help support
your family

I'd love to support your family during the challenging teenage years.  Teenagers are struggling with so many issues as they're growing and changing in body and in mind.

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I've worked for many years with teens and I enjoy their company.  I'm warm and easy to talk to and I'm authentic in sessions. I've learned a lot of ways to help your teenager feel comfortable. I don't get my undies in a bunch easily and any attitude they bring to therapy doesn't bother me.  My teens are usually nervous at first but find they come to like counseling with me. 

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My parents report that having me meet with their teen takes a load off their minds.  

Teenagers playing piggie back after learning skills for stressed out teens at Kimberly Schildbach Therapy.

My Best Coping Skills for Your Teen

1. Encourage a healthy lifestyle

  • Relaxation techniques: These techniques can help you to calm your body and mind, and they can be very effective in reducing stress. Some popular relaxation techniques include deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation.

  • Exercise: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your overall health. It releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

  • Healthy sleep habits: Getting enough sleep is essential for managing stress. When you're well-rested, you're better able to cope with stressful situations. Aim for 8+ hours of sleep each night.

  • Healthy eating habits: Eating a healthy diet can help to improve your mood and energy levels, which can make it easier to cope with stress. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine.

2. Tweak a few lifestyle habits

  • Social support: Spending time with loved ones can help you to feel supported and less stressed. Talk to friends and family about what's stressing you out, and let them know how they can help.

  • Avoiding negative self-talk: When you're stressed, it's easy to start thinking negative thoughts about yourself. This can make the stress worse. Challenge negative thoughts and focus on the positive.

  • Setting realistic goals: When you're feeling overwhelmed, it's helpful to break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make them seem less daunting and more achievable.

  • Taking breaks: When you're feeling stressed, it's important to take some time for yourself to relax and recharge. This could mean taking a few minutes to breathe deeply, reading a book, or taking a walk in nature.

2. Learn some psychology helps

  • Be patient with yourself. Coping with stress takes time and practice. Don't expect to be able to change your coping habits overnight.

  • Find what works for you. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to coping with stress. Experiment with different techniques until you find ones that work for you.

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you're struggling to cope with stress, contact me to set up an appointment. 

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Your teenager can learn to implement coping skills that will help them deal with stress.  Helping your teen learn coping skills now will set them up with positive coping skills for life.  

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Therapy will provide your teen a time to process overwhelming feelings and learn ways to cope.  Please contact me to set up an appointment.

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