Today's teens face more adult-like stresses than their parents did, and at a time when adults are much less available to help them. With many parents working outside the home, teens are more on their own than ever.

Stress is a normal part of your life. If you know how to deal with it, it can actually help your creativity, productivity, and healthy relationships with others. If you let it get out of hand, it can become a problem.

There are a variety of stresses that you may be facing. Your bodies are changing and you are developing more maturity. Peers may be pressuring you to be like the group. Parents may be pushing you to achieve or make up for something they lack. All of these may cause stress in your life.

Signals of Stress

• Lack of appetite
• Lack of concentration
• Loss of sleep
• Dropping grades
• Physical ailments

Stress Reducers

• Physical activity
• Hobbies
• Talking with friends and parents
• Keeping a diary or writing your thoughts
• Volunteering
• Helping others

If you are feeling the impact of stress in your life, talk with your parents, family members, your school counselor or someone else you trust. See for more information on counseling.

The following organizations will provide information and/or assistance (click on the agency's name for more information):