Six ways to manage stress

Feeling stressed is something we all experience, but sometimes it can get overwhelming. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to manage stress and help those around you feel better too. Here are our top six stress busters.

1. Take a break

Stepping back, even for five minutes, can help you to relax. Whether you decide to stream your favourite show or hang out with your friends and family – make sure you do something that you enjoy.

2. Do something good for others

Helping others can increase our emotional wellbeing by creating positive feelings and giving you a feeling of purpose and self-worth, according to NHS’ mental wellbeing tips. In your Volunteering section, you’ll be encouraged to give some of your spare time to helping others in need. Seeing the changes you’ve made in your local community or to individuals’ lives can be extremely rewarding and improve your self-esteem. It can also give you a real sense of perspective – helping you have a more optimistic outlook on the things that may be causing you stress. Take a look at our Volunteering ideas if you need inspiration.

3. Prioritise your time

Looking at your to-do list and working out which tasks are the most important and which can be left until last will allow you to work more efficiently. You could create a timetable to organise your revision, social commitments and DofE activities so you know what you’re going to tackle each day. This helps you break up what you need to do into manageable chunks. Remember: don’t feel guilty about prioritising having fun and relaxing.

4. Get moving

Regular exercise can be hugely effective, from helping you concentrate to increasing your energy levels. Exercising, whether it’s doing a physical activity as part of your DofE or going for a brisk walk, skateboarding, cycling or doing a session in the gym, prompts the release of endorphins which improve your mood.

5. Find a quiet place

It doesn’t have to be for long, but getting outside in the fresh air and spending time in the countryside can help take your mind off worries and give you a real boost. You could try to find a quiet place so you have some space to think and clear your mind. As part of your DofE expedition, you’ll get the chance to explore new parts of the countryside, no matter the weather. These experiences can develop vital life skills, such as confidence and resilience, to help you deal with situations that are outside of your control.

6. Talk about your stress

Everyone’s tolerance of stress is different. If you’re feeling the pressure and struggling to keep up with everything – including your DofE – then speak to your friends, parents, teachers or DofE Leader about it and see what they can do to help you. Even just talking about how you feel might ease the pressure a bit.