Have you been feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Are you having trouble deciding what to do during your free time? In addition to schoolwork, having responsibilities outside of school such as jobs and sports makes it easy for students to feel stressed. Strong feelings of stress can make it difficult to focus and complete work. There are multiple methods that students can use to relax after a long day.

According to West High school counselor Ms. Sharma, using self-care methods is an effective way to relieve stress. “I encourage students to use self-care methods such as meditation, yoga, reading, and spending time with loved ones to relax.” These activities can help refresh the brain before deciding to tackle another task.

Another activity that helps other students to relax is exercise. When interviewed, student athlete Bianca Velasquez said, “Playing water polo helps me relieve a lot of stress.” Physical activity is a good way for athletic students to relax and improve their physical skills at the same time. Other popular methods of relaxation include technology.

Students Ashlyn Hugnh and Damian Ap’e were asked what they do during their free time. They both responded with “listening to music or scrolling through social media.” This gives the brain a break from constant mental challenges like homework and allows them to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Students around the school struggle with similar feelings of stress. To avoid getting overwhelmed, it is important to prioritize your mental health instead of overworking yourself. Using suggested self-care methods from peers and adults can mark the start of a happy work-life balance. The brain is most productive when healthy and rested!