Ask yourself if there are some things you do not need to do.

Be a positive thinker

Keeping a positive attitude can reduce your stress level. When you look beyond your problems, you will see that the world is full of opportunities.

Learn to plan your time

Create an action plan to handle a worrying challenge. List what you have to do. Set priorities. A one-step-at-a-time approach divides and conquers anxiety.

Prepare for stressful events

Being well prepared for a test, for example, will strengthen your confidence and help you stay calm on the day of the test.

Do not be afraid to fail

Mistakes are an important part of personal growth. Learning from failures allows you to go on to greater success!

Analyse how you explain failure

Do you blame yourself? Laying blame and taking responsibilities are two different things. Pessimists blame themselves; optimists don not. Do not say, “I failed because I am stupid or incompetent.” Do say,” I failed because the test covered material I didn’t focus on when studying.” In the latter situation you are in control of changing things for the better.

Do something you enjoy

Set aside time to have fun every day. Engage one or more of your senses to relieve stress. You could read, listen to music, dance, play an instrument, play sport, work on a hobby or spend some time with your friends. In short, do anything that helps you to relax – as long as it is healthy! Laughing is a great way to relieve tension and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Make sure you are able to laugh at yourself sometimes too.

Find out about relaxation techniques

Knowing how to relax is one of the most valuable skills a young person can have.

Ask for help

You do not have to handle everything on your own. If you are upset with someone or something, talk about your feelings and concerns with someone you trust. A friend, parent or teacher are just some of the people you can turn to.

Good health is an important defence against stress

 Be sure to:

Eat healthy food. It takes energy to deal with the stresses of daily life. Good nutrition can help supply the energy you need.

Get plenty of sleep. Being rested is essential to good health, both mental and physical. Get in the habit of going to bed on time. You’ll feel better in the morning and all day long.

Exercise regularly. Try an activity like walking, swimming, jogging, bicycling, skating, skiing, tennis or any kind of physical activity that you enjoy. They are good for your peace of mind. And finally,

Keep a diary

Keeping a diary is a helpful way to express your anger, sadness or disappointment. When you write it down, you are, in effect, transferring an emotion out of your body and onto paper. This process also helps you to understand what is behind your emotions.

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