We are quickly moving toward the finish line of the first quarter. As students face tests, missed assignments and projects to turn in before the end-of-quarter deadline, we see a common phenomenon emerge, stress. Stress is once again being felt by more and more of our students.

The SLHS counselors, social workers, and psychologists see many students experiencing stress and struggling to overcome this intense feeling that overwhelms students.

As the year progresses, so does the number of students struggling with uncomfortable levels of stress. The source of one’s stress depends on the individual. It is important to be aware that stress is a normal part of life, and although it does not “feel” good, stress is not always bad.

Stress may assist in having one focus better and do his or her best. Stress is a motivator and forces one to prioritize.

Despite these attributes, stress still does not feel good. Emotionally one may feel overwhelmed and frustrated. Physically stress is often described as a sense of tightness or nausea in the stomach, sweaty palms, headaches or trouble sleeping, to name a few.

It is important to know how to manage your stress before it becomes disruptive to your life. The skills used to do this are called coping skills.

The first step would be to gain self-awareness. Recognize what triggers stress for you and the symptoms you feel when you are beginning to feel stressed.

Once you recognize how your body feels as stress begins, you can implement steps to manage and control this feeling.

First, step back and take slow, deep breaths. Oxygen almost always helps one to relax. Consider what it is that is stressing you and develop a plan. Prioritize and make lists to help you create a plan of attack.

Give yourself a break, the passage of time sometimes puts matters into perspective and things start to appear more manageable.

Exercise, good nutrition, adequate sleep, and interacting with family or friends can all be helpful at managing or even preventing stress.

When all else fails, you need to know that there is always help available. Your teachers, counselor, school psychologist or school social worker are available to help you through these difficult times. Use these resources.

We are here to support you and help you manage. We can work with you to find out the strategies that are effective for you to manage stress. Remember, stress is a normal part of life. You can learn, grow, and be pushed to do your best, but most important, you can manage your stress.