Stress. We feel it everyday, and although the level of stress may vary day to day, it’s still a common feeling that can possibly make our school day drag even more.

Whether it be school, family, or friends, stress will find its way into your life. You can

either let it dictate you, or you can take charge and cope with it in a healthy way.

When senior Javier Frausto was asked what stresses him out he replied “school, and my future after Leyden.”

What could be considered a common reply for many teens, but Frausto did mention what he does to clear his mind when he finds himself in times of trouble.

He stated that he takes long breaths, or just slowly counts to ten, or sometimes even 20.

Senior Tony Guzman’s advice to those dealing with stress is “stay active and keep yourself busy.”

Senior Denise Ramirez says that music helps her relax and find peace within the toughest of situations.

And while it’s easy to sit here and write about how easy it is to positively release stress, let us not forget about how easy it is to fall into bad habits when it comes to dealing with stress.

When asking Arturo Martinez, a social worker here at East Leyden, about unhealthy ways to relieve stress he replied.

“Drug or alcohol abuse, angry outbursts, and even extensive time avoiding an issue,” are just some of the many unhealthy ways to cope with stress.

Though it is a constant struggle between ourselves to positively do something about our stress, or just sit around expect our issues to resolve themselves, we must take initiative and guide ourselves for the better.

So as finals week wraps up Martinez recommends a productive study session, followed by a goodnight’s sleep.