Stress is a reality that is ever-present in the lives of children and teenagers. Whether it is family tensions, academic pressures or social events, young people face many challenges that can affect their well-being. In this article, we will explore the sources of stress in young people, the signs to look out for and effective strategies to help them manage their stress.
Sources of stress for young people
Children and teenagers can experience stress for a variety of reasons. For younger children, tensions at home, such as family conflicts, divorce or the loss of a loved one, are common sources of stress. Even positive changes, such as the arrival of a new family member or a move, can be unsettling. At school, children can be stressed by relationships with their peers, bullying or academic expectations.
For teenagers, the sources of stress often extend beyond the home. Social pressures, concerns about the future and mental health crises are increasingly common. Since the pandemic, visits to emergency rooms for mental health problems such as self-harm, drug poisoning and eating disorders have increased among teenagers.
Signs of stress to watch out for
Recognising the signs of stress in young people is crucial to being able to intervene quickly. Stressed children may become irritable, have angry outbursts or show sudden changes in behaviour. Sleep disorders, such as insomnia or excessive need for sleep, are also indicators of stress. In addition, changes in eating habits, such as eating too much or too little, can signal a problem.
Young people may also neglect their responsibilities, such as schoolwork, or complain of frequent physical ailments, such as headaches or abdominal pain.
Strategies for managing stress
To help children and adolescents manage their stress, several strategies can be put in place:
- Encourage physical exercise: Physical activity is an excellent way to reduce stress. Experts recommend at least 60 minutes of activity per day for young people aged 6 to 17.
- Ensure adequate sleep: Sleep is essential for physical and emotional well-being. Children aged 6 to 12 need 9 to 12 hours of sleep per night, while teenagers need 8 to 10 hours.
- Encourage communication: Talking about stressful situations with a trusted adult can help young people put things into perspective and find solutions.
- Practise mindfulness: Techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
- Spend time outdoors: Contact with nature is beneficial for mental health and can help reduce stress.
The role of parents and carers
Parents and carers play a crucial role in managing stress in young people. By recognising the signs of stress and providing adequate support, they can help children and teenagers develop stress management skills that will be useful throughout their lives. It is important to create an environment where young people feel safe to express their emotions and concerns.