Stress is defined as a physical, mental, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension. In 2018 so far, teens reported their stress level was 5.8 on 10-point scale. This is compared to adults who said their stress level was a 5.1. School is seen to be one of the biggest stressors for teens.

”This year has been the most stressful one so far,” said junior Ashlyn Geaslen. “Just thinking about all the things I have to do before graduation, not to mention stressing about college.”

Many say that school is not the only cause of this stress though. The combination of school-work, social life, sports and other activities could be the reason students are more tense than ever.

”I think most of my stress is caused by all the work,” said junior Riley Zaleski. “With practice after school plus any competitions and all the homework I have, it can become a lot.”

The APA’s Stress in America survey found that 30 percent of teens reported feeling sad or depressed because of stress and 31 percent felt overwhelmed.

”I feel a lot more stressed than last year, but talking to friends always helps me,” said freshmen Kennedy Swett.

Even with the abundance of stress, there are always ways to help/cope with it. Parents, teachers, and even teens themselves can find ways cope with stress. They can set limits on their screen time and participate in stress-relieving activities such as exercise, reading, talking to friends or listening to music.