Ways for Teenagers to Relieve Stress

Personal Care

• Strap on your skates and work out your stress.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Put your health first and your stress may lessen significantly. Many teens find that exercise greatly reduces stress by providing an outlet for aggression. Take up running, boxing or aerobics to sweat out your stress. Get enough sleep. When you don't sleep enough, you force your body and mind to operate without sufficient "fuel," producing more stress. Eat a balanced diet. Too much sugar or fat can leave you feeling sluggish and struggling to keep up with school work, leading to more stress.
  
  

Take a Break

• Step away from the books and refresh yourself.Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
  
  Between school, socializing and extracurricular activities, teens often find themselves overbooked and overwhelmed. Although you may enjoy and excel at all of your activities, down time is essential for maintaining inner balance and keeping stress levels low. If you're feeling stressed, set aside an hour each evening for quiet reflection, meditation or mindless activity such as watching TV. Say no to new obligations and take steps to reduce or eliminate nonessentials. When you're doing school work, take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
  
  

Family & Friends

• Family prayer can help provide stress relief.Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
  
  Utilize your support network when you're feeling stressed. Organize a girls' night in at your house or schedule a pickup football game with friends after school. Go shopping with your sister and chat about lighthearted matters to help you regain perspective on your stressors. Grab your dad and go for a walk or have a long talk with your mom. Ask your parents to organize a family night with dinner out and games. Your support system can help you get your mind off your problems and feel secure and loved.
  
  

Enjoy Yourself

• Spend a sunny day by yourself in a local park.Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
  
  Do something you enjoy for the sheer pleasure of it. Listen to your favorite music or paint your toenails. Play video games or eat a piece of your favorite cake (but don't overindulge). Watch movies. Turn on the radio and dance or sing at the top of your lungs. Drive to the beach or pool and go for a swim or sunbathe. Read a good book. Order pizza. Get some quarters and head to the arcade.