Stress management

You feel overwhelmed before a big exam. Which is the healthiest way to manage your stress?

• Stay up all night and drink energy drinks and cram

• Ignore studying and scroll through social media all night

• Yell at a friend to release frustration

• Break your studying into smaller chunks and take short breaks

Which of the following is an unhealthy way to cope with stress?

• Talking to a trusted friend or adult

• Journaling about how you feel

• Bottling up your emotions and pretending nothing is wrong

• Exercising to release tension

How could you use box breathing to manage stress in a situation like taking a test, competing in sports, or speaking in front of others?

When you’re feeling stressed, which of these strategies do you usually turn to first? Answer honestly.

• Taking deep breaths or practicing mindfulness

• Talking to a friend, family member, or teacher

• Listening to music, drawing, or doing another relaxing hobby

• Procrastinating and avoiding the problem

• Lashing out at others (arguing, yelling)