May is National Teen Self Esteem Month, a campaign aimed at creating awareness of our teenagers’ confidence and well being. Teenagers are growing up in probably the most difficult period in living memory. Self-harm, mental health problems and eating disorders are rife, and social media is a problem-riddled jungle.

Why is self esteem such a problem for teens?

On top of the physical, hormonal and mental changes going on for teens, they must also contend with increased educational expectations and navigate changing social dynamics. Social media and the web portray unrealistic standards for teens to aspire to. Body image problems are widespread amongst youth, and many feel under great pressure. Teenagers are often fragile and seemingly small bumps to their self esteem can often cause great damage.

Some helpful things to do:

Be kind to yourself.

• Get to know yourself. What makes you happy and what do you value in life?
• Challenge unkind thoughts about yourself. …
• Say positive things to yourself. …
• Give yourself a pep talk
• Avoid comparing yourself to others. …
• Do something nice for yourself

Establish and maintain boundaries.

• Practice saying “no”
• Reflect on the reasons for your boundaries. …
• Start with a few boundaries. …
• Consider setting boundaries early on. …
• Try to be consistent with your boundaries. …
• Carve out time for yourself. …
• Don’t be afraid to include extra boundaries. …
• Set healthy boundaries on social media.

Practice relaxation strategies.

• Take a bath
• Make some art work or take an art class
• Deep breathing
• Massage
• Meditation
• Tai chi
• Yoga
• Music and art therapy
• Aromatherapy

Get regular physical activity.

• Exercise at the YMCA
• Join a summer sport
• Brisk walking or jogging
• Dancing
• Swimming
• Biking.

Resources

Genesee Valley Greenway

Just Tell One’s Teen Chat Line

One Caring Adult

Outdoor Activities around Wellsville

Palmer Opera House has Yoga on Wednesdays.

Wellsville YMCA

Western New York Wilds