A group of fifth graders were asked how they deal with stress. Their answers proved amazingly down-to-earth and sensible. Here were some of their suggestions:

•    I draw
•    Call my friend on the phone and talk
•    Listen to music
•    Spend time with the people I love
•    I let out a big scream and calm down

This is very sound advice, and I would suggest any of these as being effective stress-reducers.

•    Immersing yourself in artistic or musical hobbies can help you to focus on something other than your stressors and relax.
•    Talking to a trusted friend can be cathartic, especially if that person is a good listener who understands that a solution is not needed so much as someone to hear what is going on in your heart and mind. A trusted friend can also help you to see your problem from different angles.
•    Putting on a favourite CD and closing your eyes can take you out of your chaotic world and into a place of calm for a while, giving you time to refresh and regroup.
•    Just being with loved ones has a healing effect on the soul. There is something freeing about being in a place where you feel safe - where you know you can truly be yourself and let your guard down.
•    Go ahead – let out a big scream! There are times when your frustration and tension builds up to a near breaking point. I’ve tried this driving at night in my car. It works!