HOME THISTLEY HOUGH ACADEMY ACADEMIC SCHOOL LIFE PARENTS CONTACT NEWS This past year has been one of the most challenging yet and many of us may have struggled with our mental health. This International Stress Awareness Week highlights the physical and mental impact of stress to help us understand what we need to do to protect our wellbeing. Did you know that 60% of young people feel under pressure to succeed? At some point in our lives, we all have obstacles to overcome. This could be homework deadlines or studying for exams. Sometimes these things can overwhelm us, but not all stress is bad. If we think about the different solutions to cope with stress it can help us to avoid it creeping up. Below are five healthy ways to help you deal with stress: Get active Taking part in more physical activities such as walking, or swimming is a proven way to reduce stress. By playing different sports you can help to calm any worries you have and clear your mind. At Thistley Hough Academy we offer a range of extra-curricular activities with many exciting clubs to join. This is a great opportunity to make new friends, try new skills and help you to relax and have fun. Did you know you should aim to do 30 minutes of physical activity each day? Taking regular breaks By taking short breaks away from your schoolwork each day you can help to relieve some of the strains of everyday life. To use this time effectively you can practise mindfulness which teaches us to focus on the here and now. One helpful mindfulness technique you can try is basic mindfulness meditation to help you regain your focus and reduce stress. Fact: Many people who practise mindfulness find that they get less caught up in their worries. Spend time on a hobby When you get home from school do you reach straight for your phone or jump on the computer? Why not take a break from your screens and start a hobby that is relaxing and helps to alleviate stress? Here are a few activities that you could take up that won’t cost anything and will help you to relax and enjoy yourself: Collect something- it’s an easy way to start a new friendship with those who have an interest in the same thing. Do some colouring – a colouring book is a great way to relax, and you don’t have to be an artist to have a go. Read a book – picking up a good book will help take your mind off any pressures from the day and melt stress away. Hang out with friends If you want to take your minds off stressful things in your life then get together with your friends and have a good laugh. Why not meet up with them at the weekend and gather at your local park for a walk or take a trip to the cinema? They say laughter is the best medicine and sharing quality time with friends has lots of mental health benefits such as: Bringing joy to your life. Easing anxiety and tension. Relieving any stress. Improving your mood. Fact: A good belly laugh relieves physical tension and stress by leaving your muscles feeling relaxed for up to 45 minutes afterwards. Talk to somebody If your stress feels unmanageable and overwhelming, it is best to reach out to someone for help. It may not feel like it at the time, but opening up about your problems will make you feel like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders. There are always plenty of people out there to listen, whether they are your friends, family or teachers; you are not alone. At Thistley Hough Academy, we take all our students’ mental health and wellbeing seriously. Our doors are always open to meet for a chat. You can also contact us on: worrybox@thistleyhoughacademy.org.uk or enquiries@thistleyhoughacademy.org.uk or call us on: 01782 883 500 If you want more information on mental health, we have lots of helpful resources on our website for you. Mental Health – Thistley Hough Academy Thistley Hough Academy Home Principals Welcome Reports and Data Policies Parents’ Handbook Academy Council Religious Education Physics Physical Education Performing Arts Music Modern Languages Mathematics History Geography Food Studies Enrichment Homework Medical Conditions Parents Pay Pastoral Prospectus Supporting your child Careers Pathway Facilities SEN CET Contact us Email Login Homework Calendar PARENTS HANDBOOK PARENT PAY CALENDAR CONTACT US Thistley Hough Academy, Thistley Hough, Penkhull, ST4 5JJ. Thistley Hough Academy is operated by Creative Education Trust, which is a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England and Wales no 7617529. Registered Office: 7 Sicilian Avenue, London WC1A 2QR. Creative Education Trust is a charity, regulated by the Secretary of State for Education. Thistley Hough Academy Thistley Hough, Penkhull, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 5JJ T: 01782 883 500 E: enquiries@thistleyhoughacademy.org.uk To report a student absence, please dial: 01782 883 500 © Thistley Hough Academy 2021 Terms and Conditions Privacy Policy Designed by