You're Not Alone

Stress can be tough for all ages, but especially teenagers trying to find their way in school, friendships, family, career, etc. Staying away from social media is a huge factor as well. As teens, we already have pressure from people around us, and when we're looking at people on your phone, sometimes we compare yourself to others. Usually teens revert right to social media after getting in fights and go directly to tell friends, which only ends up worsening situations.

Forty-five percent of high school students report feeling overwhelmed with homework, projects, and home life. Although some people prefer to talk about stress, others find ways to get rid of it, and some struggle to do anything. Every day, people around us could be struggling with something we would never imagine. Just simply checking up on the people around you, giving a quick compliment, could just make their day a little easier.

There’s endless ways that can help reduce stress, and different methods work for different people. I asked some friends what helped them the most, and got a variety of answers.

Sophia Clever '26 explains, “Personally, I love to write in a journal to let go of all my feelings." Activities like journaling can allow people to put words or images onto paper. Sometimes instead of talking about it, this can be a great way to clear your head

“I listen to music whenever I get stressed,” says Alexa Alcala Escudero '26. Scientific reports show that more upbeat music can give the mind a more positive outlook, and allows oneself to feel motivated.

Clare Dardy '26 adds, “I just stay isolated, cry if I need to, and listen to music.” Letting out feelings is one of the best ways to cope, instead of keeping them bottled up. Sometimes being around other people can add more stress, so taking breaks for yourself is relaxing and gives you your own space to think.

These are some tactics that help current SUA freshman. Other coping mechanisms can be going on runs, practicing sports, etc. so things to get you moving out of one place.

Something that I've found helpful is making “happy traps.'' Happy traps are activities you can do to just distract yourself from reality, and give yourself a break. For me, that’s playing piano, taking naps, playing guitar, hanging around loved ones, working out, praying, or just being in nature.

In the end, whatever you choose to lessen the stress, it’s just what works best for you, so don’t feel judged if other people don’t agree with you. Sometimes stress can keep you aware of reality and help you have a healthy mindset. So just know, you’re never alone - stress is normal, and everyone has it.