We all experience things that are stressful. It is perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed when things get tough and we are challenged with issues that life throws our way. However, not all stressors affect us negatively.
A moderate amount of stress can actually be good for a person. For example, competing in sports may motivate a person to practice every day. The stress we feel before taking a test may prompt us to study more, and so on.
If a certain amount of stress can be helpful, when does stress become a problem?
If the stress we experience in any given area of our lives – school, friends, family, job – starts to overwhelm us, it can "take over" in a sense. We feel pressured under stress. And when we aren't able to deal with problems in a healthy way, the stress it causes interferes with our sense of well-being, which, in turn, affects emotional and physical health, daily functioning, and relationships.
Finding ways to cope with life's challenges in a positive, healthy way is a critical step in dealing with stress.
Most likely you experience stress from time to time. Maybe you don't know what to do about feeling overwhelmed by your schoolwork. Perhaps you are anxious about something besides school. Or maybe you simply don't know what is bothering you.
If you are feeling stressed out, summer is a perfect time of year to take a vacation from your worries. You've worked hard all year and deserve some kind of break. No matter how big or small the break is, take one!
Every year students and families take advantage of summertime to engage in fun activities. They visit relatives or friends in a different city or state. Some families spend time outdoors going camping, hiking, or fishing. Friends meet friends at the pool, go on picnics, or attend a summer camp. And a vacation from stress doesn't have to be time-consuming or costly. Unwinding may be as easy as going for a walk or reading an exciting book. Even the simple act of smiling can help. Talking with a friend or family member, taking some time to pray or journal, and spending time on some of your favorite hobbies are also some very healthy ways to handle stress.
We can feel stressed no matter what the season. But summer is a perfect opportunity to take a vacation from stress and have fun spending time doing the things you enjoy.
When summer vacation is over you'll come back with a sunnier disposition and feeling better equipped to deal with challenges that lie ahead. And, you may find yourself smiling more often.
Taking mini stress breaks every day throughout the entire year isn't such a bad idea either. You'll find it helps you stay better focused and make the day-to-day school tasks and outside commitments more enjoyable.
Start now and plan your vacation from stress today!
Mrs. Steventon & Mrs. Hansen
Academic School Counselors