We all deal with stress and anxiety at times which isn't necessarily a bad thing. In fact, some anxiety can be a good thing. It motivates us to get things done and helps us recognize potentially bad or dangerous situations. However, when our stress level gets too high, it can cause many negative physical and emotional problems. Below are some ideas of how to cope with stress and anxiety and some ways to help lower your stress level.
Ways to De-Stress
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Quick (Immediate)
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Medium (5-10 minutes)
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Long (More than 10 minutes)
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- Stress ball/fidget toy
- Take slow, deep breaths
- Relax your muscles
- Count to 100
- Doodle/draw a picture
- Chew gum
- Stand up/stretch
- Eat a healthy snack
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- Talk to a friend, parent, or trusted adult
- Breathing exercise
- Relaxing app/game
- Listen to music
- Take a short walk
- Play with your pets
- Take a nap
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- Exercise
- Play a game/sport
- Favorite hobby
- Read a book or watch a movie
- Go on a hike
- Clean/organize your spaces
- Journal
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Free Phone Apps & Websites
Breathe2Relax Breathing exercises and demos
Virtual Hope Box Games, puzzles, inspiring quotes, relaxation exercises and more
Stop, Breathe, & Think Lots of mindfulness activities to help you relax (requires sign up for all activities) *Also a website https://app.stopbreathethink.org/
Emotionary by Funny Feelings Dictionary of emotions to help you figure out how you are feeling
Fluid Dynamics Draw cool, colorful designs
Rain Rain Calming sound effects like rain, animals, and thunderstorms
Mindfulness for Teens Mindfulness tools and resources http://mindfulnessforteens.com/