Helping Teens Manage Stress When the News Feels Overwhelming
In today’s digital age, news is everywhere. Whether through social media, television, or conversations with friends and family, teens are exposed to a constant stream of information. While staying informed is important, the overwhelming nature of news—especially negative or distressing stories—can take a toll on mental well-being.
So, how can teens find a balance between staying informed and protecting their mental health? Here are some practical strategies:
1. Set Boundaries on News Consumption
It’s easy to get caught in a cycle of endless scrolling, but consuming too much news can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Teens should set specific time limits for checking the news—whether it’s once or twice a day—rather than constantly refreshing their feeds.
2. Choose Reliable Sources
Not all news sources are created equal. Encourage teens to seek out credible and balanced sources rather than relying on sensationalized headlines or social media rumors. Trusted sources provide accurate information without unnecessary fearmongering.
3. Take Breaks from Social Media
Since social media platforms often amplify distressing news, taking regular breaks can be beneficial. Designating tech-free times during meals, before bed, or during activities like exercise and hobbies can help create a healthier balance.
4. Focus on What’s Within Control
News can often make the world feel chaotic and unpredictable. Instead of dwelling on what they cannot change, teens can focus on actions they can take—whether that’s helping their community, engaging in self-care, or practicing mindfulness.
5. Talk About Feelings
Encouraging open conversations with trusted adults, friends, or counselors can help teens process their emotions. Suppressing anxiety or fear can make it worse, but discussing concerns can provide reassurance and perspective.
6. Engage in Positive Activities
Counteracting stressful news with enjoyable activities is key. Encouraging teens to engage in hobbies, exercise, listen to music, or spend time with loved ones can help shift their focus to positivity and relaxation.
7. Practice Mindfulness and Stress-Relief Techniques
Simple mindfulness exercises like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can help teens manage stress when news feels overwhelming. These practices help bring a sense of calm and control in the midst of uncertainty.
8. Seek Professional Support if Needed
If news-related stress becomes overwhelming and interferes with daily life, seeking support from a therapist or counselor can be beneficial. Professional guidance can equip teens with tools to navigate stress more effectively.
Finding a Healthy Balance
It’s important for teens to stay informed, but not at the expense of their mental health. By setting boundaries, choosing credible sources, and focusing on well-being, they can create a healthier relationship with the news.
By fostering awareness without anxiety, teens can stay engaged with the world while also maintaining their mental and emotional resilience.
Get Mental Health Care
We’d love to connect you or someone you know with mental health care. To refer a child/teen/adolescent or yourself, please call (877) 992-2422 or click here to make a referral. Bradley REACH’s expert teams of psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and nurses provide intensive mental health care and therapy to teams and families, virtually, in New England, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Florida.
DISCLAIMER:
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
If you or your child are in crisis or experiencing mental health problems please seek the advice of a licensed clinician or call 988 or Kids Link in Rhode Island.
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