One thing that’s changed a lot for many children and youth is access to the internet and social media. This can make life more complex these days.

Children and youth experience social media in a wide range of ways, both in healthy and unhealthy ways. Sometimes it can feel as if there is no “off-switch", and these platforms can amplify everyday stressors.

For tips on developing healthy technology habits in your family, listen to our Keeping Tech in Check podcast. 

Another cause of family stress is having too much to do. Can you schedule in some time to slow down and recharge? Read these tips for ways to help lower some stress. 

Finding a balance between school, activities, fun and play can sometimes mean the difference between a busy child and a stressed one. 

If your child is tired often, frequently says they would like to stay home and do nothing, what used to be fun isn’t fun anymore, or their grades start to drop, these may be signs that your child is too busy.

Take a look at their schedule and replay some mental images over the past week:  Was there some down time? Was there time for rest and play?

Here you’ll find some tips for creating family routines and simplifying schedules. 

Sports can also be a source of pressure and stress for youth. Athletes may feel overwhelmed by the pressure to perform at a certain level. Tryouts, mistakes, tough losses and injuries may become sources of stress and anxiety. But, these setbacks also offer an opportunity to build skills for bouncing back from challenges. With support, athletes can learn strategies and mindsets that help them thrive in the face of life’s ups and downs.

Here are 12 tips for getting the most benefit out of sports by supporting the mental health of young athletes.