TEENS & YOUNG ADULTS - The American Institute of Stress

Stress Management for Teens and Young Adults

• Common Stressors: Teens face daily pressure from school, social lives, family dynamics, and significant life transitions.
• Biological Response: Stress triggers the "fight, flight, or freeze" mechanism, causing physical symptoms such as increased heart/breathing rates, cold extremities, digestive issues, and feelings of dread.
• The Relaxation Response: It is possible to counteract the stress response by using mindfulness and stress management techniques to signal to the body that it is not in immediate danger.
• Support Strategies: Adults (parents, educators, administrators) can support young people by fostering open communication, offering reassurance, and teaching practical coping tactics.
• AIS Educational Resource: The American Institute of Stress offers an AIS-certified, self-paced course for $5.00 that teaches the science of stress and evidence-based management tools.
• 2024 Statistical Trends (Worldometrics Report):
  • High prevalence of extreme stress during the school year.
  • Use of drugs or alcohol as maladaptive coping mechanisms.
  • Significant reports of depression and sadness linked to stress.
  • Physical impacts, including skipping meals.
  • Widespread expectation that stress levels will continue to rise.