As conversations around teen mental health continue to grow, many students are finding small, personal ways to take care of themselves.
For some, staying active plays a major role. Whether it’s sports, going on walks or just going outside, movement can help reduce stress and clear the mind.
“Something I do for my mental health is to always reserve an hour in the day to take care of myself. I’ll go walking, take an everything shower, or go to the salon, really just anything to feel my cup,” senior Nadia Evans said.
Another common strategy is maintaining a consistent routine. Having a set sleep schedule, keeping up with schoolwork and limiting procrastination can stop feelings of being overwhelmed. While it may not always be easy, creating structure in daily life can help teens feel more in control.
Others turn to creative outlets like journaling, music, or art as a way to express emotions they may not want to share out loud.
“I handle stress the classic teen way, loud music and writing in my sticker-covered journal,” senior Aidan Vollmar said.
Spending time with friends and family is also a key factor in having and maintaining positive mental health. Some students prefer to be alone to strengthen their mental health. Against some controversy, playing games and being alone can put the mind at ease for most teens.
“Whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed or feeling stressed, I turn to my guilty pleasure,” senior Kendall Mayer said. “I feel so relaxed when I play Bloxburg in Roblox. I like to spend my time delivering pizzas and earning money in the game or working on upgrading my house. It’s also nice to put on a TV show or movie to watch while I’m playing the game.”
In addition, many teens are becoming more aware of their social media use. Taking breaks from platforms or setting limits on screen time can help reduce comparison and negativity, allowing students to focus more on their real-life experiences.
Self-care looks different for everyone, but students can agree that even small efforts can make a big impact. Getting enough sleep, finding time for hobbies, blasting music, and going on walks are habits that show that taking care of mental health doesn’t always require big changes, just consistency. As awareness continues to grow, students are proving that simple, daily activities can help build a healthier, stress-free mindset.
“I love taking some breaks for myself when feeling stressed out. I enjoy silence in my room, and I also love taking walks outside,” senior Peyton Pasak said.
If you or a loved one is in need of support, visit Alma Support Texas Crisis Resources for 24-hour support hotlines.
