So What is Anxiety or Stress?
Well the easiest way to describe it would be an uncomfortable feeling of nervousness or worry; about something that is happening or might happen in the future.
How Much is Too Much?
So What Can You Do?
Anxiety can also happen for no obvious reason at all. It can start as a simple worry but grow into what is known as a panic attack. If you have a lot on your mind then something quite small can cause anxiety. Remember though anxiety, nervousness and stress are normal for everyone to experience from time to time. It is how you deal with it that matters. Here are our top tips to help you manage them:
- Think positive.A great way to keep our minds positive is to allow yourself to dream, wish, and imagine the best that could happen. If something is out of your control then let it go, so you can focus on things you can change.
- Become a relaxation expert.We all think we know how to relax. Sitting chilling out in front of the TV or computer, using alcohol, drugs or cigarettes isn’t true relaxation. They may seem to relieve anxiety or stress, but it’s a false state of relaxation that’s only temporary. What the body really needs is a relaxation technique — like deep breathing, tai chi, or yoga — that has a physical effect on the mind. For example, try taking a deep breath in through the nose for a count of 3, and slowly let your breath out though the mouth for a count of 5. Continue this until you feel calmer and more at ease. This breathing technique is very powerful and works quickly. It helps to relax a major nerve that runs from the diaphragm to the brain, sending a message to the entire body to let go and loosen up.
- Get enough sleep, nourishment, and exercise.Want your mind and body to feel peaceful and strong enough to handle life’s ups and downs? Get the right amount of sleep for your needs — not too much or too little. Eat well: Choose fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains for long-term energy. Avoid the short bursts that come from too much sugar or caffeine). And exercise to send oxygen to every cell in the body so your brain and body can operate at their best.
- Connect with others.Spend time with good friends or family. Having fun and spending time with others allow us to feel happier and less upset about things. If you feel worried or nervous about something, talking about it with someone who listens and cares can help you feel more understood and better able to cope. You’ll be reminded that everyone has these feelings sometimes. You’re not alone.
- Speak to someone now on Teenline. We are here to help and support you. We have practical advice and tools as well as a good listening ear. (link to live and video chat)


Life is getting a bit better thank you for talking to me and helping me stay safe

Thanks for helping me feel better. I don’t get so angry now about things, which means I stay out of trouble

Thanks for teaching me how to stay calm. I did a test the other day and completely calm.

Now I use the tapping you taught me and it really works thank you

Thanks for helping me feel better and able to talk things through.

I feel much stronger since talking to you and able to ignore what people say

My family do my head in, it is nice to have someone to talk to

Thanks for listening and the tapping really works to help me stay calm at home

This site give great information and support – keep it up!

Thanks for helping me to quit smoking

So pleased I am not alone and you have help so much to help me quit

I have found the sessions so useful. Things are starting to feel a little better.

After losing my mum things got really bad for me. You have really helped me feel stronger

Thanks for listening. Keep up the good work

What we went through makes sense and I am now sure what I want to do

This led to my increase in self belief and now I strive to achieve better things with your help

It was good to talk to you, things are so confusing

When I find things tough I hurt myself, thank you for giving me another way to deal with things.

It’s good to know I am not alone and that other boys do it too

It feels good to know I am not on my own. Thanks for listening

I started drinking cos my friends did now I know I don’t have to follow them. I can be myself