Difficult tests. Frustrating relationships. Sleepless nights. There are many situations that can cause stress, and not dealing with it can lead to problems like anxiety and depression.  

Stress Awareness Month has been recognized every April since 1992. In 1974, the International Stress Management Association (ISMA) was founded to gather research on workplace and personal stress management. A 2017 study from the American Psychological Association found the most common sources of stress reported were finances (62%) and work (61%). A 2020 update of this information highlights teens as having higher than usual stress levels when compared to other ages. With students getting older and obtaining jobs, they also gain the stress of trying to balance school and their upcoming careers. 

“Stress for me is caused the most from school because I have too many things to do and not enough times in the day to do them. There are not enough hours in the day to get done what is expected of us, and it leads to stress of what could happen if we don’t finish before the day is done,” Madison Kutschke, sophomore, said. 

There are multiple ways to deal with the different types of stress.  Focusing on thoughts that bring calming feelings will help avoid anxious thoughts. 

“Doing things that make me happy and relaxed really helps me stay calm because I get to focus on things I enjoy rather than things that make me upset or unhappy,” Isabel Stivers, freshman, said. 

The Centers for Disease Control recommends these tips for coping with stress: 

• Take care by eating healthy, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, and taking a break when starting to feel overwhelmed. 
• Share problems by talking with a parent, friend, or another trusted source. 
• Avoid drugs and alcohol because while they may seem to take away problems, they actually cause more damage than good. 
• Recognize when more help is needed. Know when to talk to a psychologist, social worker, or counselor if certain issues continue. 

“I love exercise because it gives me a break from school which helps lower my stress levels,” Lily Derenthal, junior, said. 

Keeping low stress levels can improves one’s mood and overall quality of life. This month highlights ways students can deal with stress, anxiety, and depression, helping them make changes in their lives so they can be their best selves.