Fun Activities to Help Your High School Student Manage Anxiety

Hello Parents and Guardians!

Supporting your high schooler's mental health is crucial, and the Botvin Life Skills Training (LST) program offers effective techniques. Encourage your teen to try these activities and find what works best for them.

Grounding Techniques

5-4-3-2-1 Game

• Description: Have your teen identify 5 things they can see, 4 things they can touch, 3 things they can hear, 2 things they can smell, and 1 thing they can taste.

• Why It Works: This game shifts their focus to the present moment, reducing anxiety.
  

Creative Expression

Art Journaling

• Description: Encourage them to draw, doodle, or write about their feelings using colors to express their mood.

• Why It Works: Creative expression provides a therapeutic outlet for emotions.
  

Physical Activities

Dance Parties

• Description: Suggest putting on their favorite music and dancing freely.

• Why It Works: Physical movement releases endorphins, which help reduce anxiety.
  

Visualization

Peaceful Place Visualization

• Description: Guide them to imagine a safe, relaxing place, picturing all the details.

• Why It Works: Visualization creates a sense of calm and reduces panic.
  

Breathing Exercises

Bubble Breathing

• Description: Have them imagine blowing bubbles. Take a deep breath in and slowly blow out as if creating a big bubble.

• Why It Works: Deep breathing calms the nervous system and eases anxiety.

Sensory Activities

Calming Jar

• Description: Create a calming jar with water, glitter, and food coloring. Shake it up and watch the glitter settle.

• Why It Works: Watching the glitter can be soothing and help regain control.

Encouraging your high schooler to try these activities can significantly enhance their mental health. Help them find the activities that work best and practice them regularly to see improvement.

For more tips and resources, visit Botvin Life Skills Training.