Feeling Overwhelmed? It Might Be Time to Speak Up

From test time to soccer practice to spending time with friends, you’ve got a lot going on in your life. It’s common to feel overwhelmed from time to time, but if you start feeling really stressed out, it’s important to be aware of it.

Believe it or not, stress isn’t all bad. Your brain needs mental stimulation, which, in fact, can make you a smarter and sharper person. Situations that cause you to feel happy and excited, like starting at a new school, can be called “good stressors.” Situations that cause you to feel sad, scared and angry can be called “bad stressors.” It is this type of stressor that you need to keep under control.

If stress is affecting things like how much you eat or sleep or if it’s something that’s supposed to be fun and just isn’t anymore, it’s time to speak up. Talk with your parents and share with them how you feel. Depending on what’s making you feel overwhelmed, they will likely help you by cutting back some of the things in your schedule, or get you some extra help with schoolwork you find difficult.

Life is full of everyday pressures and it’s normal to feel some stress once in a while. But making sure it doesn’t hurt your health and well being is important. Talk to your parents and teachers about your feelings — you’ll be happy you did.