A recent survey released by the American Psychological Association (APA, February 2014) found that adolescents are experiencing similar, if not higher, levels of stress when compared to adults in the US. Additionally, individuals under stress are more likely to report an increase in unhealthy behaviors such as not getting enough exercise and sleep. Engaging in these unhealthy behaviors can further exacerbate feelings of stress which creates a problematic cycle.
In order to break out of this cycle, it is essential to understand the relationship between stress and unhealthy behaviors. Instead of skipping exercise under times of stress, make time to get to the gym or take a walk outside. Exercise helps to improve your mood and can reduce stress. Similarly, getting enough sleep at night can also help to decrease feelings of stress. Replacing the unhealthy behaviors with more healthy alternatives will eventually break this cycle and result in you having better ways to manage stress.
Learn more about these findings:
http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/index.aspx
APA.ORG
Stress in America Press Room
