Improve My Emotional Health
Talk About Mental Health Safely
Provide Resources to My Community
Learn More
Need to Know
Stress can feel like being overwhelmed, unfocused, or constantly on edge, and it may show up as physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, or trouble sleeping.
It’s often caused by external pressures, such as deadlines, or internal struggles, such as self-doubt, and it can build up over time.
Viewing stress as something fearful or destructive can actually increase its negative impact, while seeing it as a normal part of life helps us respond more effectively.
Some of the most effective ways to manage stress include mindfulness, physical activity, connecting with supportive people, and creating healthy routines for rest and relaxation.
Although some stress can motivate us, chronic stress can harm mental and physical health, leading to burnout, anxiety, or illness.
Recognizing early signs of stress and addressing them proactively can prevent it from becoming overwhelming.
Things to Avoid
Avoid suggesting “hustling harder” as the solution to stress. Rest and self-care are just as important for long-term success.
Don’t oversimplify stress management with generic tips such as “just relax” or “treat yourself,” without offering practical, evidence-based ideas.
Avoid dismissing stress as just a mindset issue while ignoring the real external pressures people face, but also avoid framing stress as something to fear or panic about.
Be cautious about oversharing specific details of what’s stressing you out, because it may unintentionally trigger similar stress in your audience.
Productivity hacks can sometimes be helpful, but don’t imply that the answer to stress is always “doing more” or being more efficient. Instead, focus on balance and sustainability.
Your Opportunity
Encourage your audience to view seeking help as a brave step toward feeling more at ease in social situations.
Social media often becomes a place to vent about stress, but you can shift the conversation by sharing how you’re coping or your journey to managing it. If you talk about what’s stressing you out, include what’s helping you work through it.
Use your platform to encourage your audience to set boundaries, prioritize rest, and build routines that protect their mental health.
Highlight the value of small, actionable steps to manage stress, such as finding moments to breathe, move, or connect with someone they trust.
Share resources, such as apps, mindfulness classes, or professional support, to help your audience take action when stress feels overwhelming.
Resources
The Jed Foundation (JED) →
Find resources to understand and manage stress.
Mental Health Is Health →
Find information and resources from this MTV Entertainment Studios Initiative.
The Nap Ministry →
Resources for de-stressing through the power of naps.
Explore by Topic:
Explore topics uniquely relevant to your journey and audience. Engage with content that enhances your understanding and equips you to manage your specific mental health needs effectively.