Hello there, young people!
Life can occasionally seem like an exhilarating roller coaster, full of unexpected ups and downs. But grab on tight because we’re going to ride through one of this ride’s scariest loops: stress! Yes, stress is that sneaky travel companion who likes to board the plane when you’re hoping for a smooth journey. But do not worry; we have some awesome advice to help you control your stress and make this voyage much more enjoyable.
Let’s first identify the flashing signs that stress might be hitching a ride with you on the plane:
Sleeping Dragon 🐉
If you’ve noticed yourself either dozing off like Sleeping Beauty, catching some z’s as if under a magical spell, or tossing and turning like an insomniac owl unable to find its nest, then stress might just be the culprit behind these sleep escapades. You see, stress can be a master puppeteer, tugging at the strings of your sleep cycle like a mischievous marionette. One night you might find yourself drifting into a dreamland of wonder, only to be rudely awakened by the stress dragon’s fiery breath, leaving you wide-eyed and restless the next night.
Emo overdrive 🖤
Ah, the wild ride of emotional overdrive! It’s like being strapped into an emotional rollercoaster, soaring through loops of joy, plunging into pits of sadness, and careening around sharp turns of rage. One moment you’re laughing with your friends, the next you’re wiping away tears as if you’ve stumbled upon a hidden onion patch. And just when you think you’ve caught your breath, anger roars in like a thunderstorm, leaving you feeling like a volcano about to erupt.
Houdini hobbies 🎮
If you find yourself searching for your favourite hobby, like a hidden treasure in a vast jungle, only to come up empty-handed, stress might just be the cunning thief responsible for its disappearance. Remember the days when you used to immerse yourself in painting, the colours dancing on the canvas like magic? Or the thrill of gaming, where you’d venture into virtual worlds and conquer epic quests like a fearless hero? If these once-beloved activities now seem like distant memories, stress might be pulling off a masterful disappearing act.
Super stomachache 😣
Stress may twist and turn your stomach like a pretzel, pulling the ultimate practical joke on you. One moment, you might feel like you’re gliding on a cloud of happiness, and the next, Stress pulls the rug out from under you, leaving your stomach in knots like a tangled ball of yarn. Thus, stress may be the cause of your queasy stomach if you experience it!
Now that we’ve spotted the pesky stress signals, let’s learn how to tame this stress-coaster with one awesome tip:
Mindfulness magic ✨
Imagine possessing a superpower that allows you to remain calm, focused, and in control of your emotions. Say hello to mindfulness now! It’s like controlling your own mind like a Jedi. Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. You can maintain your composure and manage stress with the aid of these Jedi techniques.
Alright, my fellow teenagers, stress doesn’t have to be the driver of this crazy adolescent journey. It may simply be a passenger. With positivity and mindfulness at your side, you can control this rollercoaster like a pro. Watch out for those signs of stress and use your fantastic advice to get through the detours!
Remember, you are not traveling alone. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your friends, family, or a trusted adult. Everyone experiences stress occasionally, but it doesn’t have to define who we are. You’ll emerge from life’s rollercoaster stronger and wiser if you embrace its ups and downs!
Xin Xuan Wong
Youth Counsellor/Behaviour Therapist
About the author Xin Xuan:
Xin Xuan is a professional counsellor and behaviour therapist specialising in evidence-based modalities such as cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance & commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, applied behaviour analysis therapy, play therapy, and more.
