This article was created with a desire to help you identify efficient ways to deal with the pressure you may be under. Even if you’re not under any stress just yet, I suggest you read on (not just because I wrote it!) because if you or someone you know ever experiences the feelings I mention, you’ll know how to help.
Tip 1: Know the signs
Well, to deal with stress we need to know what is actually is.
Cutting right to the chase, stress is when you feel overwhelmed to point where you’re unable to cope anymore. The effects can be emotional, physical and mental, so be aware. Once you have identified that you may be struggling with stress, you can look at some effective ways to manage it.
Tip 2: Manage your time
It just so happens that 79% of the UK’s population get stressed because of work (statistic from ‘perkbox’ UK stress study 2020).
Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘I don’t work because I’m a minor so this doesn’t apply to me’. Unfortunately, homework is classed as work (probably because it has the word ‘work’ in it) and is usually dreaded and considered unfortunate.
Although I can’t magically make homework disappear, I can tell you this: Space. It. Out. I know it sounds too good to be true, but university students have tested this theory and it does help by tricking your mind into thinking you have a lot less work (*disclaimer* don’t space it out further than it’s due).
Tip 3: Sleep
I know it seems like everyone says this, but having a healthy sleep schedule does clear your mind (and not just because you wake up not knowing where you are). When you have enough sleep, you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to look at the day from another angle, which is sometimes all it takes to let all that bottled–up pressure just fizzle out.
Conclusion…
This is a short one, but just know that if your dealing with any kind and/or size of stress there is always someone you can go to. And if even if you don’t have friends or family there will always be a 24/7 hotline who are always there to help. You never need to deal with feeling overwhelmed on your own. Reach out and find support.
Most recently, BSGD had an assembly on a fantastic service that you can use if you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Log onto Kooth to find out more about the support you can find online.
By Taylor Musadaidzwa (Year 7)