Six ways to manage stress

This month we’re focusing on stress and, more importantly, how to reduce it. Stress Awareness Month has been held in April for the past 30 years and the impact of the pandemic over the past two years has seen a rise in young people struggling with stress. Read our six ways to help you manage your stress.

1. Take a break

Stepping back, even for five minutes, can help you to to relax. Whether you decide to stream your favourite show or hang out with your friends and family – make sure you do something that you enjoy.

2. Do something good for others

Helping others can hugely increase our emotional wellbeing by creating positive feelings and giving you a feeling of purpose and self-worth. During your Volunteering section, you’ll be encouraged to think outside of yourself and give some of your spare time to helping others in need. Seeing the changes you’ve made in your local community or to individuals’ lives can be extremely rewarding and improve your self-esteem, as well as give you a real sense of perspective – helping you have a more optimistic outlook on the things that may be causing you stress. Still looking for Volunteering ideas? Find some inspiration here.

3. Prioritise your time

Looking at your to-do list and working out which tasks are the most important or can be left until last will enable you to work more efficiently. You could create a timetable to organise your revision, social commitments and DofE activities so that you know what you’re going to tackle each day – helping you break up what you need to do into manageable chunks. Remember: don’t feel guilty about prioritising having fun and relaxing.

4. Get moving

Regular exercise can be hugely effective, from helping you concentrate to increasing your energy levels. Exercising, whether it’s doing a physical activity as part of your DofE or going for a brisk walk, skateboarding, cycling or doing a session in the gym, also prompts the release of endorphins – improving your mood.

5. Find a quiet place

It doesn’t have to be for long, but getting outside in the fresh air and spending time in the countryside can help take your mind off the worries you’ve built up and give you a real boost. You could try to find a quiet place so that you have some space to think and clear your mind. As part of your DofE expedition, you’ll get the chance to explore new parts of the countryside, no matter the weather. These experiences can develop vital life skills, such as confidence and resilience, to help you deal with situations that are outside of your control.

6. Talk about your stress

Everyone’s tolerance of stress is different. If you’re feeling the pressure and struggling to keep up with everything, including your DofE, then speak to your friends, parents, teachers or DofE Leader about it and see what they can do to help you.