"Stress" is defined as the way our bodies and minds react to life changes. Since adolescence is a period of significant change, including physical, emotional, social, and academic changes, many teens are under more stress than at any other time of life.

"Teen stress" is similar to the adult stress in terms of the signs and symptoms. But the causes of teen stress are totally different and they need somewhat different stress management programs for dealing stress. It is estimated that teens form 20% of the total population. Yet they are a neglected group of the population.This transition from childhood to adulthood is never so easy. This group is a vulnerable group to both physical and emotional stress. There are problems everywhere for them - problems at home with their parents and siblings, problems in the school with their friends and education. Adolescent medicine is a new concept in the field of medicine. The adolescents cannot be treated as either adults or kids because their problems are totally different.

What causes Stress?

• academic pressure and career decisions
• pressure to wear certain types of clothing or hairstyles
• pressure to try drugs, alcohol or sex
• pressure to fit in with peer groups and measure up to others
• adaptation to bodily changes
• family and peer conflicts
• taking on too many activities at one time

"It is very important for teens to learn to handle stress, as long-term build-up of stress that is not handled effectively may lead to problems, including physical illness, anxiety or depressions, which call for professional help."

Teenage "Stress Overload" Signs:

• increased physical illness (headaches, stomachaches, muscle pains, chronic fatigue)
• "shutting down" and withdrawal from people and activities
• increased anger or irritable lashing out at others
• increased tearfulness and feelings of hopelessness
• chronic feelings of worry and nervousness
• difficulty sleeping and eating
• difficulty concentrating

Stress Management Skills for Teens

• Taking deep breaths accompanied by thoughts of being in control ("I can handle this")
• Progressive muscle relaxation, (repeatedly tensing and relaxing large muscles of the body)
• Setting small goals and breaking tasks into smaller manageable chunks
• Exercising and eating regular meals, and avoiding excessive caffeine
• Focusing on things you can control and letting go of things you cannot control
• Rehearsing and practicing feared situations (e.g., practicing public speaking or asking someone out on a date)
• Talking about problems with others, including parents, older adults and friends
• Lowering unrealistic expectations
• Scheduling breaks and enjoyable activities, such as music, art, sports, socializing
• Accepting yourself as you are and identifying unique strengths and building on them, but realizing no one is perfect!