Stress
Stress
Adolescence is a transformative period filled with academic pressures, social challenges, and emotional changes. Stress in adolescents refers to the feeling of being overwhelmed or burdened by these demands. It can have significant effects on their mental and physical well-being, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. Stress can exist on multiple levels, regarding a variety of issues.
Common causes of high stress include:
- Academic Pressure: The demands of schoolwork, exams, and extracurricular activities can lead to stress and feelings of overwhelm, impacting academic performance and self-confidence.
- Social Challenges: Navigating friendships, peer pressure, and social expectations can cause anxiety and stress, affecting adolescents' sense of belonging and self-esteem.
- Family Expectations: Striking a balance between family expectations and personal goals can create tension and stress, especially when trying to assert independence and make important life decisions.
- Emotional Changes: Adolescents experience emotional ups and downs, and managing these emotions can be challenging, leading to stress and feelings of confusion.
Interventions at Marga include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: CBT helps adolescents identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies. This empowers them to manage stress and build resilience.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Teaching mindfulness and relaxation exercises helps adolescents become more aware of their stress triggers and provides tools to stay calm and centred during challenging situations.
- Time Management and Goal Setting: Providing guidance on effective time management and setting achievable goals helps adolescents prioritise tasks, reducing feelings of overwhelm and promoting a sense of accomplishment.
- Social Support and Communication Skills: Encouraging open communication and building a support network helps adolescents express their feelings and seek help when needed, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.
