Students often find themselves struggling to balance a test they have tomorrow, a major project due soon, college applications or a game that evening.  When teenagers juggle many activities at once, the stress can build up and cause students to feel overwhelmed.

6 Ways to Reduce Stress:

1. Make sure you are getting enough sleep.  Staying up all night on the weekend is only going to further your stress levels, especially when you may have to stay up to study during the week.  According to WebMD, “If you don’t get enough sleep, you won’t be able to remember what you learned and experienced during the day.”  This could cause someone to fall behind in school and other activities.

2. Work on your time management.  If you feel like you have too much on your plate, prioritize and choose what activities are most important to you.

3. Create a list.  When you find yourself overwhelmed with the amount of things you have to do, make a list and cross off completed items.  You will begin to feel a sense of completion as the list becomes smaller.

4. Do not procrastinate.  Sometimes students get lazy and put off school work till the day before it is due.  This causes unneeded stress as you rush to complete everything.  Try completing part of your work every night leading up to the due date.

5. Meditate.  You do not have to be a yoga expert.  Take a few minutes to relax, even if it is just for a few minutes.

6. Eat healthier.  Eating healthy foods are not only good for your body, but are also good for your mood.  You will feel less tired and have more energy to complete your activities.

Remember, stress can be a good thing.  It is what drives people into completing goals, assignments and the fight or flight response.  Some students face stress constantly, something that can cause health problems down the road.  Signs to recognize of too much stress include headaches, backaches, irritation, sweaty palms, exhaustion and negativity according to WebMD.