By: Elise Newman
Teen To Teen is a series of blogs written by teen authors for teens on topics that matter most to them. Please Note: “Teen to Teen” should be considered peer-to-peer advice and support. It is not given in place of professional consult or care.
I’ve been pretty stressed out lately. I usually have a good handle on balancing things and practicing what I preach, but the truth is that I’m human and have limits.
The important thing is that when we reach these limits and become overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, we need to have a good support system. Surrounding yourself with people who love and support you and want to build you up is important. That doesn’t mean it has to be a ton of people; even one or two will do, as long as they support you the same way you support them.
Support Is A Two-Way Street
The overwhelming support and love I’ve received from my friends these past few weeks have been insane. However, support is a two-way street. To grow your support system, you must also reach out and support those surrounding you. This can be as simple as shooting a text or asking a friend how their day is going. These simple acts of kindness we do for each other go a long way.
Having a good support system can make or break someone. You need people who cheer you on while pushing and encouraging you to meet your goals. Having supportive friends and family is one of the most important aspects of balancing what life throws at you. It’s okay to ask for help, and your friends should be there for you when you do.
Surround Yourself With Those That Care
If there’s one piece of advice you may take away from this post, it should be: “Who you choose to surround yourself with matters.” It’s important to recognize who is there to support you and who will bring you down. Those who genuinely care will go the extra mile. You’ll find out that those who want to be there for you will be, which makes all the difference. Life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, but things will seem much brighter with the right people by your side.
If you’re facing a pregnancy or think you may be and feel you need more support, Birthright St. Charles has caring, compassionate licensed counselors available to sit down and hear you, help you and care. Give us a call or text to set up a time just for you – we’ll bring some sunshine!
Whether you’re a student or a young parent, saving money at a young age can be challenging, especially in an economy with rising prices and inflation.
This time of the year is challenging and often demanding. Beginning a new year can feel like starting again with the stress of new and remaining challenges. It can sometimes feel like the chaos doesn’t stop but shapeshifts into “the next thing”—medical issues, unexpected bills, family and friends in need, car accidents, storm damage, job troubles, surprising news that you never imagined… an unplanned pregnancy.
The birth of a new baby can elicit various feelings for everyone in the family, including any newly minted older siblings. Every individual child will react uniquely. While some may find their new role as “Big brother” or “Big Sister” brings pride, status, and new privileges and freedoms, others may wonder – “Why’d you go and get another one?”
Around six months ago, I noticed I wasn’t sleeping as well as I had been in the past. I was having a hard time falling asleep, and I would wake up several times a night. My typical routine was to get into bed and scroll on my phone until I felt I could fall asleep; checking emails and phone notifications turned into hours of social media scrolling. My head would become filled with the latest news headlines, the current Covid statistics, and pictures of the seemingly amazing lives of my friends.