At ASU Prep Digital, we are committed not only to the academic success of our students, but to the student as a whole. In order to prepare students for college, careers, and life, we must first attend to their well-being.
Many students face significant stressors in their lives, which can interfere with personal and academic goals. Everyone reacts differently and it can be hard to know when to be concerned about a peer, or even yourself. Below are some warning signs that may indicate distress or significant emotional concern.
Stress, Anxiety, and Balance
Let’s be real—life is stressful. Everyone feels stress from time to time on some level. Stress is the physical or mental response to an external cause, such as having a lot of homework due at the same time, getting ready to give a speech, and even packing or planning for a trip. Sometimes stress is helpful and can inspire you to meet a deadline. Other times it may cause you to lose sleep. Whether positive or negative, this kind of stress generally goes away once the situation is resolved.
Anxiety is the body’s reaction to stress and can occur even if there is no current threat. It’s typically a persistent feeling of dread or apprehension that doesn’t go away. Both stress and anxiety can affect your mind and body. Typical symptoms include headaches, body pain, high blood pressure, and sleeplessness.
Learning what triggers stress and anxiety can help you create balance and improve your overall well-being. Here are a few activities you can try to help create balance:
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- Journal. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help center and calm you as you express what’s troubling you.
- Practice mindfulness. There are many apps that offer relaxation exercises focusing on breathing and visualization. This can help you pay more attention to the present.
- Time management. Making good use of your time so you attend to the important priorities in your life will help improve your mental state as you feel more prepared and in control.
- Sleep. Prioritizing sleep and establishing a routine is crucial to ensure both your body and mind have time to rejuvenate.
Resources to Consider
If you are struggling to cope or if your stress and anxiety won’t go away or worsens, it’s important to know you don’t have to go through this alone. Your parents, teachers, and learning success coaches are here to support you, always!
For emergency situations, please call 9-1-1.
- Crisis Response Network. (Arizona-based). Use the Find Help tool to learn more.
- Crisis Text Line. Free crisis help is available via text message 24/7. Text ‘START’ to 741-741 to text with a trained Crisis Counselor.
- To Write Love on Her Arms. Supports those struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. Use the FIND HELP tool to locate counseling in your area.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
- International Suicide Hotlines.
Explore these additional resources regarding stress and balance:
- Mindfulness
- Sleep
