Natural ways to nurture your teen’s resilience during times of stress

People of all ages can feel overwhelmed by stress and nervousness, and teens are by no means exempt. During the whirlwind of teenage years, with academic pressures, social dynamics, and hormonal changes, it's no surprise that anxiety can become a frequent companion for many young people.

First and foremost, seeking professional guidance is essential if your child is experiencing any sudden or severe changes in mood or outlook. Secondly, integrating natural remedies (always with approval from your doctor) into your family’s daily regimen can offer valuable support in managing teen anxiety.

At Healthtree, we understand the importance of holistic well-being and we’re often asked for natural ways to support young people’s physical and mental health. 

Here are some natural things you can do that may help alleviate teen anxiety, and that you can do proactively to keep stress levels manageable:

Encourage Physical Activity: Regular exercise is a potent stress-reliever. Whether it's jogging, dancing, or playing sports, physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters. Encourage your teen to find activities they enjoy and incorporate them into their routine. Even taking the time for a 15 minute walk after dinner offers a myriad of benefits for both your teen, and for your entire family. 

Promote Healthy Sleep Habits: Quality sleep is essential for mental health. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can significantly reduce anxiety levels. Limiting screen time before bed and creating a dark, comfortable sleep environment are also crucial for promoting restful sleep.

Support Balanced Nutrition: A well-balanced diet plays a significant role in overall mental health. Encourage your teen to consume nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts are particularly beneficial for reducing anxiety symptoms. If these foods are not easily accessible, or if you’d like to increase the benefits even more, you can supplement with Omegas in liquid or capsule form. 

Introduce Relaxation Techniques: Teaching relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness can empower teens to manage their anxiety effectively. These practices promote a sense of calm and help reduce the physiological symptoms of anxiety.

Explore Herbal Supplements: Certain herbal supplements have been shown to have calming effects on the nervous system.  Ingredients like saffron  have been studied for use in youth age 12 and up and have been found to relieve restlessness and nervousness and support mood balance.

Encourage Open Communication: Establishing open communication channels with your teen is essential for understanding their challenges and offering support. Create a safe and non-judgmental space where they feel comfortable expressing their feelings. Encourage them and support them in seeking professional help if their anxiety symptoms persist or worsen.

Promote Positive Lifestyle Choices: Help your teen develop healthy coping mechanisms to deal with stress. Encourage them to engage in hobbies, spend time with supportive friends and family, exchange screen time for fresh air and sunlight by getting outside, and prioritize self-care activities that bring them feelings of joy and fulfillment.

At Healthtree, we believe in being proactive in protecting and supporting mental health. Our carefully curated selection of supplements is designed to support overall well-being and promote a balanced mind-body connection. Remember, while natural remedies can be effective complements to traditional treatment approaches, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any new supplements, especially for adolescents. Remember to also check product labels to ensure the ingredients are right for you or your child. 

By incorporating these natural strategies into their daily routine and fostering a calm, supportive environment, teens can cultivate resilience and develop healthy coping mechanisms to navigate life's challenges with confidence. Together, let's prioritize teen mental health and empower our upcoming generation to thrive.