There are many causes of stress, especially in a teenager’s life, whether it is school, work, family problems, or extracurricular activities. However, there is no need to fear, friends are here.
According to the ElderCare Online website (ec-online.net), after someone has listed all the stressors in their lives, thinking about with ones can be eliminated or reduced can help. Talking to friends is one of the ways someone can eliminate or reduce stress.
Even though friends can be considered one of the leading causes of stress, they are also one of the best ways to cure stress.
And since teenagers have a multitude of friends, stress can be easily cured.
As stated on the Here to Help website (heretohelp.bc.ca), the most powerful weapon of all against stress is having strong social support. Establishing and nurturing positive relationships with friends increases self-esteem and boosts mental-well-being.
Students shouldn’t allow stress to take over their lives, especially when it comes to friendships. Friends can sense when something is wrong and want to help.
The women’s Health website (womenshealth.org) also emphasizes that one way to reduce stress is by talking to friends, as they are good listeners. Finding a friend who will let someone talk freely about their problems and feelings without judgment will help to reduce worries and stress.
“Friends can help a lot,” said the school psychologist, Anita Nielsen. “They can help by going out and having fun. Being able to talk to someone helps you to not feel alone. You feel better about everything.”
Nielsen also mentions that when somebody understands and gets you, it feels good.
“Stress is cumulative, it builds up,” said school counselor Jerry Payne. “Sometimes we can’t let it out. Friends give you a chance to let it out, to process and to validate each other.”
Payne also said that when friends don’t know how to help with stress, a teacher or a counselor or any adult can help due to their life experience.
If the friend recommends it, talk to an adult.