How to Deal with Online School Stress

Step 1

1

Take some deep breaths if you’re feeling upset. You’ve probably been there — your family won’t stop making noise, the internet keeps slowing down, and you just can’t focus on that math problem you’re supposed to be doing. You start to feel mad, frustrated, and tense. When this happens, stop and take a few deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. Count to 4 each time you breathe in, and again when you breathe out. You’ll feel more relaxed in no time!

When you take deep, slow breaths, your body sends a message to your brain to calm down and relax.

If you want, try closing your eyes and imagining something peaceful while you breathe, like resting on a beach and listening to the waves.

You might need to keep breathing for a few minutes until you feel calm.

Step 2

2

Go outside for a few minutes to get some fresh air. Being stuck indoors all day is stressful for anyone. That’s why you get to go outside for recess when you’re in school! Whenever you have a few free minutes during the day, step outside and enjoy the world outdoors — even if you’re just sitting in your own backyard.

If you have the time, go for a quick walk around the block. Or, just spend a few minutes sitting outside and listening to the sounds of the outdoors.

Step 3

3

Draw or write to get your feelings out on paper. If you’re feeling stressed but can’t go anywhere, grab a pencil and a notebook or journal. Doodle a quick sketch or write down what you’re thinking or feeling. Once you put your feelings on paper, you may find that you feel a little better!

Coloring is also a great way to relax. Whether you’re a first-grader or a high school student, you’re never too old to grab a coloring page and get busy with some crayons or markers.

Step 4

4

Pound on some play dough or squeeze a stress ball. If you’re feeling fidgety, work it out with your hands. Grab some play dough, a squishy toy, or a little kinetic sand and enjoy the feeling of squashing, squeezing, stretching, or smashing it. You might be surprised at how relaxing it feels!

You can also try messing around with a fidget spinner, tangle, or puzzle cube.