Stress is a natural human response to pressure or change. A small amount of stress can be motivating, it can help children prepare for a test or try their best in a competition. However, when stress becomes constant or overwhelming, it can begin to affect a young person’s emotional, mental and even physical health.
Why Are Children and Young People Stressed?
There isn’t one single cause of stress. For children and teens, it can come from many directions:
• School Pressure – Exams, homework or high expectations can create anxiety.
• Social Media – Comparing themselves to others online can damage self-esteem.
• Family Issues – Divorce, arguments or financial worries at home can make children feel insecure.
• Friendship Struggles – Bullying, peer pressure,or feeling left out can deeply affect confidence.
• Future Uncertainty – Teenagers often worry about careers, college and finding their place in the world.
Even young children can feel stressed when routines change, such as starting a new school or moving house.
Signs That a Child or Teen May Be Stressed
Stress can look different in every child, but some common signs include:
• Emotional Changes – Irritability, sadness, mood swings or withdrawing from others.
• Physical Symptoms – Headaches, stomach aches, trouble sleeping or changes in appetite.
• Behavioural Changes – Acting out, avoiding school or losing interest in activities they once enjoyed.
• Cognitive Signs – Trouble concentrating, forgetfulness or negative self-talk.
Recognising these signs early can make a big difference.
How Can We Help?
Supporting children and young people through stress doesn’t always mean solving their problems. It’s just as important to be present and listen, to help them build coping skills. Here’s how we can all play a part:
• Listen Without Judgment – Let children know it’s okay to talk about their feelings. Listening shows them that their emotions are valid.
• Create a Safe Space – Encourage open communication at home and school. A calm, predictable environment helps reduce anxiety.
• Teach Healthy Coping Strategies – Activities like journaling, drawing, spending time outdoors or practicing mindfulness can help manage stress.
• Encourage Balance – Children need downtime which might be time to play, rest or disconnect from screens.
• Seek Professional Support if Needed – Sometimes, stress can become overwhelming. Talking to a school counsellor, GP or mental health professional can provide the right support and guidance.
• Building Resilience for the Future – Helping young people manage stress isn’t just about reducing their worries now, it’s about giving them lifelong tools for resilience. When children learn how to express their emotions and ask for help, they grow stronger and more confident. Counselling can provide the tools to enable them to help themselves.
A Final Thought
Every child deserves to feel safe and understood. By raising awareness and promoting open conversations about stress, we can help ensure no young person feels alone in what they’re going through. Together, we can create a world where mental health is valued just as much as physical health and where every child can thrive.
If you or someone you know is struggling with stress or mental health issues, remember help is always available. Reach out to Stop.Breathe.Think, we provide Solution Focused Counselling with skilled therapists who can support you.
