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Teenagers today have a lot on their minds. Homework, pressure from friends, and worry about upcoming decisions can all be sources of stress. Stress is often caused by trying to please others, such as parents and teachers, but sometimes you need to forget about all that and just go out and enjoy yourself. Here are five suggestions to help you have fun and feel good.
1) Get out more often. Physical activity and sunlight have both been shown to relieve stress. Try both of them together to really boost your mood. Basketball, ultimate Frisbee, minigolf, soccer, swimming, and tennis are several outdoor activities enjoyed by many teenagers across the country. Exercise boosts the body’s production of endorphins, which act to boost a person’s mood naturally as well as relieve pain. Sunlight is important for the body’s regulation of chemicals, which is why some people get depressed in winter months when the hours of daylight grow shorter.
Also, don’t forget to take care of yourself physically. When you’re young, it’s easy to neglect your health just because you’re able to consistently bounce back from poor health habits. Many teenagers seem to thrive on junk food and just a few hours of rest each night. Over time, however, such poor habits can have a large impact on your health. Make sure you get at least 8 consecutive hours of sleep each night and try to eat several servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
2) Keep in touch with your friends. Many teens find that a supportive network of peers keeps them happy and motivated. Keep a list of numbers to call when you’re feeling bummed or overworked, and ask a friend to take you out for some fun. Try going out for coffee or ice cream, or look for an open mike or karaoke night in your area. Remember that your friends are there for you, no matter what pressures you are experiencing due to school or work. They will be happy to help you when you’re stressed, whether you need someone to listen to your worries or when you just want a hug.
Don't neglect to spend time with your family. Many teenagers feel their parents just don't understand them. However, even if your parents have different issues to face to face than you or your friends do, they will always be the ones to support you.
For extra company, consider getting a pet. Try a goldfish or a hermit crab if you don’t have much time for cleaning and care. Walking the family dog can be a great way to get things off your mind, and Rover will love you for it. too. Simply petting a dog or cat has been proven to instantly reduce feelings of stress and blood pressure.
3) Don’t try to grow up too fast. Now is the time you can still feel free to enjoy the things you did as a kid. Visit a park, take a walk in the woods, ride go-karts, play an old favorite video game, or go fly a kite. Take some of the old toys out of your closet and recall what it was like when you were young and you didn’t have so much to worry about. Don’t be afraid of looking silly; you’ll be surprised at what you can enjoy when you don’t worry about what anyone will think of you.
4) Express yourself. Letting your creative side loose can really reduce daily tension. Try drawing, painting, singing, or dancing. Keep a journal and fill it with sketches and poetry. Recording stressful events and worries throughout your day can also help them seem less stressful. Learn an instrument and try writing a song. Trying out a new creative hobby will also help you feel good about yourself as you gain new skills.
5) Get involved in your school or community. Giving back to those around you can make you forget about your own worries. Try volunteering at a local soup kitchen or animal shelter. Help out with something you really love by volunteering for sports and music events, and you might even get to attend a game or show for free. Just about any hobby you enjoy will help give you a stress-relieving outlet. Try something you might never have considered before, such as knitting or yoga.
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