Interaction and healthy lifestyle play key roles in handling stress

Suffering from a lack of appetite? Or have you lost interest in all kinds of activities? These could be symptoms of depression.

Adolescence is a period of physical, psychological and social changes when stress seems unavoidable. Adolescents have to deal with pressures from various sources, such as examinations, family conflicts, rapid physical changes and volatile emotions. They also have to develop self-esteem.

Stress is not always bad. Mild stress can heighten awareness and improve learning ability and study performance. However, long-lasting and heavy stress can have an adverse effect on your health. It may develop into anxiety, nervousness and even depression. In extreme cases, it may cause some to consider suicide.

How can you manage stress and turn it to your advantage? Here are some tips:

Have an optimistic and positive attitude and do not dwell on the negative.

Work according to your ability and prioritise tasks. Know your strengths and weaknesses and do not force yourself to take up things that are beyond your capability.