REMOVE THE NEGATIVE NOISE
It may seem hard to filter out negative noise from all the online chatter, peer pressure, and traumatic events in the world around you. Find strength in knowing you have the power to focus on yourself, your mental health, and, if you’re up for it, you can help a friend in need, too.
Support Your Mental Health
It’s okay to not feel okay
There are lots of reasons you may feel the way you do. That’s why it’s important to find healthy ways to filter out negative noise to reduce unwanted anxiety, stress, or depression. You are stronger than you give yourself credit for.
FIND YOUR FILTER
Even small changes to your routine can help improve your mental health. Here are some things to try when you’re feeling stressed:
HOW DO YOU FILTER OUT THE NOISE?
Share your tips to help other Maine teens like you!
Self-Care
Self-Care is not selfish
Self-care looks different for everyone. Creating self-care goals and healthy routines are important life skills that help filter out the negative noise and increase your overall energy, happiness, and sense of purpose.
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Connect with Others:
Reach out to people around you who give you love and support. That could be friends, family, or other caring adults. Hang out, watch a movie, do something fun – even a quick check-in with your favorite people can remind you that you’re loved, just as you are.
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Avoid Negative Self-Talk:
Be kind to yourself. Steer away from saying or thinking mean things about yourself and the world around you. Start focusing on the good stuff instead.
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Appreciate the Little Things:
Try finding joy in smaller moments like a sunny day, a friendly smile, a funny moment with friends, a small act of kindness toward others, or other things you might otherwise take for granted.
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Limit Stressful Media:
Avoid spending too much time on news and social media that stresses you out. Find things that make you feel better instead, especially during times of crisis.
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Set Personal Boundaries:
Set clear rules for yourself in relationships and activities and stick to them. Boundaries help everyone understand what you find acceptable — and what you don’t.
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Keep a Regular Routine:
Set regular times for things like waking up, meals, homework, and fun activities. Having routines can reduce stress by creating a sense of order in your life.
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Use Positive Affirmations:
Boost your confidence by repeating positive words about yourself. Remind yourself of your strengths to regain control when you’re feeling down.
Warning Signs
Know the warning signs of suicide and self-harm
Signs that someone is struggling with their mental health can show up anywhere – through behaviors, conversations, or social media posts. Here are some examples of warning signs to look out for:
- Mood swings
- Increased drug or alcohol use
- Giving away personal items
- Lack of interest
- Loss of appetite
- Driving dangerously
- Wanting to be alone
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Talking or posting about death
- Planning for suicide or self-harm
Trust your gut – if you have concerns about yourself or someone else, it’s important to reach out to a trusted adult or support services.
