self-confidence
The importance of self-confidence during these ages should not be underestimated. It includes being able to trust your own abilities and judgement. In order to have healthy self-confidence the focus should be on both strengths and weaknesses and understanding both are okay and necessary. Many studies have linked overall happiness in a child to their level of self-confidence. With more confidence comes less fear of mistakes and trying new things, more motivation and dedication for goals, a greater resilience to setbacks, improved relationships with empathy and presence, and a sense of self-worth. More self-confidence can also lead to engaging in less risky behaviors.
THINGS TO TRY

Create List of Achievements
No matter how big or small, all should be celebrated.

Strengths & Weaknesses
It is important to recognize each, for every weakness come up with a plan to improve.

Goals to Graduation
Start creating a few goals now that you will strive for until Graduation.
stress management
Teenagers report stress levels similar to the levels of adults. During a challenging school period, teenagers feel enormous amounts of stress due to homework, extracurricular activities, relationships, and transitions in life. One important aspect of stress is visualization, knowing that the stress will not last is important in managing it. Organization can help in minimizing distractions and clutter; this will help with positive associations towards an area. Positive thinking and affirmations can lead to better circumstances in life. Keeping the body physically healthy by getting a good night’s sleep, eating nutritious meals, and exercising regularly will also help tremendously in reducing stress. Reaching out to someone apart of your support system or take time to yourself can also help in reducing stress.

Visualizations
Imagine yourself solving the problem or getting rid of the stressor. This stress won't last forever.

Organization
Keeping your room and study spaces clean and organized will help keep a positive look at the space.

Stay Physically Healthy
Getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and eating nutritious meals and snacks can all help in reducing stress.

Reach Out
If you aren't able to handle everything yourself it is okay to ask for help from someone you trust.
THINGS TO TRY
social media
Teenagers report stress levels similar to the levels of adults. During a challenging school period, teenagers feel enormous amounts of stress due to homework, extracurricular activities, relationships, and transitions in life. One important aspect of stress is visualization, knowing that the stress will not last is important in managing it. Organization can help in minimizing distractions and clutter; this will help with positive associations towards an area. Positive thinking and affirmations can lead to better circumstances in life. Keeping the body physically healthy by getting a good night’s sleep, eating nutritious meals, and exercising regularly will also help tremendously in reducing stress. Reaching out to someone apart of your support system or take time to yourself can also help in reducing stress.
THINGS TO TRY

Set Limits
Limit time you spend on social media. Take a break by spending time alone or hanging out with friends.

Keep it Positive
Follow people that make you feel good about yourself and only post things that are positive.

Monitor Feelings
If social media continuously makes you feel worse than you did before, it may be time to step back.
WHEN TO ASK FOR HELP
​It is important to monitor feelings regularly and know when to ask for help. Mental health disorders affect young people and teenagers greatly. It makes things like work, school, or socializing with other people harder than normal. If you believe you or anyone you know has a mental health disorder, it is important to get help. Mental health disorders are influenced by a number of factors including genes and the environment. It is not a choice and it affects any type of person. Early identification is key in finding treatment and preventing future illness. Knowing common signs and symptoms of a potential mental health disorder is crucial in early detection.
COMMON SIGNS
Major weight fluctuations
Loss of interest
Problems sleeping
Withdrawal from others
Loss of self-esteem
Feeling restless
Easily tired
Excessive worrying
Trouble concentrating
Extreme mood changes
GETTING HELP
Talk to a doctor.
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Talk to a school counselor.
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Tell a parent or
trusted adult.
If it is an emergency and you or someone you know is considering suicide:
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Call 911
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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK
(1-800-273-8255)