INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Stress often occurs when someone is overwhelmed with too many problems or responsibilities. If your friend or loved one wants help coping with their stress, offer to sit down with them and try to pinpoint exactly what's stressing them out. This is an important step towards making their stress feel more manageable. Brainstorm with them about what their biggest stressors are. They'll probably have some ideas of their own, but you can also help by offering your own observations or asking questions. For example, you might ask things like, "How are things going at work? Are you getting enough sleep?" Some sources of stresslike terrible winter weathermay be totally outside of your loved one's control. Others, however, may be more manageable. Help your friend or loved one identify problems that are within their control. Then, work on breaking those problems down into bite-sized pieces so that they seem less overwhelming. Make a list of their stressors and try to pinpoint which ones they can control and which ones they can't. Maybe a messy house is one source of stress for your friend, but the task of cleaning up feels overwhelming. Say something like, "Okay, let's take it one room at a time. How about we start with the kitchen and go from there?" You can also encourage them to drop obligations that aren't really necessary or are causing them undue stress. If you have any positive strategies for coping with your own stress, talk to your friend about them. Don't pressure your friend into trying something or suggest that it's guaranteed to work for them. Just say something like, "You know, when I'm feeling overwhelmed, it really helps me to take a break and go for a walk." Some good stress-relieving activities include meditating, doing yoga, doing something creative, listening to peaceful music, reading a book, or spending time with friends. Spending quality time with someone you care about is a great way to minimize stress. Encourage your friend or loved one to take a little time off from their worries and do something with you that you both enjoy. For example, you might invite them to go see a movie you've both been excited about, take them to an art class with you, or invite them out for coffee at their favorite cafe. Physical activity is another great stress-buster, so consider going for a walk or playing a round of squash at the gym. If your friend or loved one is stressed because they have too much on their plate, taking some of the pressure off them can be a big help. If you're able to take over any of their obligations or responsibilities, offer to do so. For example, you might say, "Hey, how about I make dinner tonight so you can relax for a bit?" Don't offer to take on anything that you aren't confident you can handleotherwise you may cause yourself undue stress! Sometimes, your friend or loved one's stress may be too big for the two of you to handle alone. If you're concerned about their wellbeing and don't think you can do enough to help, urge them to talk to their doctor or a counselor. If you're really worried about them, you could call a local crisis line and ask for advice. They can offer tips on how to help your friend cope or connect you with resources that can help. If you're a minor, talk to a trusted adult about what your friend is going through. You could reach out to a parent, a teacher, or your school counselor or nurse.

SUMMARY: Help them identify the causes of their stress. Work with them to find solutions to solvable problems. Share some of your favorite stress-relieving strategies with them. Invite them to do something fun or relaxing with you. Offer to help them with some of their responsibilities. Encourage them to seek professional help if necessary.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Having a text conversation about your crush's day or interests is a good way to show you want to know them better. Just don't let the conversation drift into more mundane, generic topics, and don't keep your crush waiting too long before you ask them out. The quicker you pop the question, the more likely you'll have their full interest and get a good response. If you're asking your crush to go on a specific date, focus the conversation on that. For example, if you want to take them to a movie, talk with them about a new release. When asking your crush on a date, include a kind comment explaining why you want to go out with them. This will make them feel good and open them up to the idea of a date. Some text ideas include: "I really like talking with you. Would you like to grab coffee together sometime?" "I've been thinking recently, would you like to go see a movie with me?" "You seem really wonderful. Would you be interested in grabbing dinner?" Make sure your crush understands that you want to take them on a date, otherwise they may think you are just inviting them to go out with a group of friends. Use clear phrases like "Want to go out?" instead of vague one like "Want to hang?" If your crush says yes, follow up immediately to make the necessary plans. Look for a day and time that works for both of you, then figure out a place to meet. Have concrete plans in place before you end the text conversation. This will show your crush that you're interested and prevent confusion down the road. Give them some space and, in a few weeks, talk with them again as just a friend. If your conversation goes well, the dating doors may still be open. In the meantime, make sure to take care of yourself by hanging out with friends, getting out of the house, and staying active.

SUMMARY:
Stay focused on your goal. Ask them out with a compliment. Be specific when you ask your crush out. Figure out the details of your date. Don't worry if your crush says no.