We know what it is like to feel stressed and being under pressure is a normal part of life. But becoming overwhelmed by stress can lead to mental health problems or make existing problems worse.
We all encounter some form of stress in life, and pupils may well be worrying about returning to school and settling back into a different routine after lockdown, or may have concerns about their health, their loved ones or their futures. It’s very important to help pupils recognise these worries and stresses and help them learn different ways to cope with them.
Signs of Stress
If a child is feeling stressed or under pressure, it may start to feel like it’s taking over all aspects of their day-to-day life. The effects this may have on children and young people include:
- Feeling anxious.
- Low self-esteem.
- Feeling overwhelmed.
- Lack of confidence in the classroom.
- Poor sleep, not being able to go to sleep, or sleeping much more.
- Avoidance behaviours may start to form, taking them away from friends and other social situations.
Tips to reduce Stress
- Encourage them to spend time doing things that make them happy. Encourage them to live a healthy lifestyle by:
- Exercising regularly, getting outside for fresh air.
- Eating a healthy varied diet and drinking plenty of water.
- Developing healthy sleep habits that support a good night’s sleep.
Useful Websites
Young Minds –
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/
Kooth-
Shout –
CW Rise –
