1. Put Down the Phone
Young people consume so much social media and spend so many hours on their phones that no wonder there are increased levels of anxiety for teens in general. Too much social media has been linked with health issues, including depression and a lack of self-esteem. Take a break!
2. Try Contemplative Practices, Like Meditation
Having a regular meditation practice, like for 10 minutes per day, can be life-changing. It reduces stress, controls anxiety, and makes you more mindful and self-aware. Even a few deep breaths in the middle of the day can help your teen to regain focus and relieve stress. A short, daily practice can be more effective than long sessions, so start your teen out with a mindfulness app like Headspace or Calm.
3. Indulge in Creative Expression
Creative expression has multiple benefits for emotional health. It gives teens a way to release complicated emotions through music, journaling, visual arts or hobbies. Extracurricular activities that invoke a sense of peace and calm can be wildly effective for reducing stress during the teen years.
4. Have a DIY Spa Day at Home
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy a spa day. All you need are some face masks, bath bombs, bubble bath, your favorite music, and a candle that smells amazing.
5. Saying Positive Affirmations
Positivity can have a huge effect on overall mindset and self-esteem for teens. Try repeating positive affirmations, like “I am strong. I love myself. I am worthy. I believe in myself,” on a daily basis so that you aren’t so hard on yourself.
6. Explore Nature
Research has repeatedly shown a link between being outdoors and lower levels of stress, depression and anxiety. Time in nature also helps counteract the mood disturbance caused by too much screen time. Doing regular outdoor activities as a family can help adolescents build this all-important habit.
7. Regular Movement
Whether it’s sports, workouts, walks, running, Zumba or yoga, movement helps both physical and mental health. The activity doesn’t matter as long as it’s consistent.
