Walking, talking bundles of STRESS!

April isn’t just about spring flowers—it’s National Stress Awareness Month. While my focus is usually on older adults and their families, I’d be remiss not to mention another group feeling the pressure right now: our youth.

Whether it's your grandchildren, kids, church youth group, or neighborhood teens—many are facing final exams, AP testing, graduations, and other big life milestones. What do they all have in common? STRESS.

We all need to be advocates for them. And it's easier than you think:

Actionable Ways to Reduce Stress for Youth (and You):

• Ask how you can help – A simple “What can I do for you?” goes a long way.

• Pick up their tab – Coffee, lunch, or even a gas fill-up shows support.

• Create calm spaces – Lower the noise, soften the mood, offer peace.

• Pray or meditate together – Faith and mindfulness reduce tension.

• Just listen – Let them vent without fixing.

• Encourage – A smile, a kind word, or a sticky note of inspiration matters.

Don’t Forget the Basics: Nutrition & Sleep

Good food and rest aren’t just for growing kids—they’re stress fighters at every age.

• Eat stress-reducing foods – Think bananas, berries, leafy greens, salmon, nuts, and whole grains. These foods support brain health and balance mood.

• Avoid sugar and caffeine overload – They can spike energy but crash it just as fast, worsening anxiety and irritability.

• Hydrate – Even mild dehydration can increase cortisol (the stress hormone).

• Prioritize sleep – 7–9 hours isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. Try wind-down routines like herbal tea, low lights, or quiet music before bed.

Let’s remind our youth they’re not alone—and teach by example. When we show up for them now, they’ll know how to show up for us later.