A Quick Letter on Managing Stress and Taking Care of Your Mental Health
Contributed by Alexandra Hickey — Speak Up for Kids Student Intern, a Florida Atlantic University High School student involved in psychology and neuroscience studies, with experience in infant cognition research, DECA leadership, and community volunteering.
Overview
Life can be very stressful, especially when going through big changes. With that being said, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Thankfully, there are some ways to help manage stress & keep your mental health strong.
What Exactly is Stress?
Stress is how your body reacts to pressure, don’t worry– everyone goes through it! However, too much stress can make it hard to focus, sleep, or feel happy.
Practical Steps to Manage Stress:
Breathe Deeply: Take deep breaths to calm your mind. Try this for a few minutes when you feel upset or stressed.
Stay Active: Exercise, even a short walk, can help reduce stress and improve mood.
Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours each night. Sleep helps your brain and body recover.
Talk About Your Feelings: Find someone you trust, a friend, mentor, or counselor—and share what’s on your mind.
Take Breaks: When things feel too overwhelming, step away for a moment. Listen to music, draw, or do something you enjoy that doesn’t take much effort.
Practice Positive Thinking: Remind yourself of your strengths and past successes.
Why Mental Health Matters
Taking care of your mental health is one of the most important things you can do for yourself because it can help you handle tough situations better and feel more confident about the future! Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. You are not alone, and taking small steps each day can make such a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Managing stress doesn’t mean you have to fix everything all at once. It’s about taking small steps—like breathing deeply, getting enough rest, and talking to someone when you need support. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and taking care of it is a sign of strength, not weakness. Be kind to yourself, ask for help when you need it, and remember—you’re not alone, and you’re doing better than you think.
