Stress and anxiety

Stress about exams, school, work or finding a job is natural. These are important things which will have a big effect on your future.

Stress can be helpful, for example motivating you to study or try your best. 

If stress is causing you concern, there are things that can help:

1. Talking to friends and family
2. Taking time to relax
3. Getting enough sleep

If you are getting too stressed, it can be helpful to get support. Talking to your School Health Nurse can be a good place to start.

Crucial: Download the Mindshift App for inspiration, practical strategies, quick meditations, and more to help reduce stress. 

Anxiety

Feelings of anxiety are natural, for example when you are trying something new. But if you are feeling anxious a lot of the time, then it can be a warning that you need to take action. 

Sometimes simple actions can help:

1. Talk back to yourself in a positive way
2. Answer negative thoughts with a positive thoughts
3. Soothe yourself with calm thoughts or make plans to do something fun or positive

Learning how to change your response to stresses can be difficult and take time, but it is worth it. The skills you learn to manage anxiety will help you with everything in your life, from focusing on study to succeeding in a job interview. 

Good to know: Oxfordshire CAMHS have lots of information on anxiety, including what you can do and resources that can help.

Ways to help yourself 

There are lots of little steps you can take to help yourself, these include:

• Getting the right amount of sleep
• Keeping busy doing activities
• Stay as active as you can

Finding out what works for you is the key. 

Good to know: Mind have put together helpful, interactive guides for young people, including topics on stress and anxiety, and sleep.

Support from Tellmi

Tellmi is a free mental wellbeing support app for children and young people in Oxfordshire. 

It is a safe, anonymous app where you can talk about anything. 

Moderators check everything to keep you safe and their in-house counsellors are always on hand if you need extra support.

Take Action: You can sign up for anxiety-easing emails from Every Mind Matters to get expert advice and practical tips to help you deal with anxiety.