Intense Emotions
Emotions can be a lot more complex than we think. As we begin to experience strong new emotions, it is important to be able to identify them and understand where they stem from.
This section only describes these emotions. To learn about how
to deal with these emotions, check out our coping skills section.
Stress
What is stress?
Have you ever had strong emotions leading up to a big test or sports game? You were probably under stress.
Stress is your body's way of preparing you for a challenge. Sometimes stress can be productive, making you work harder. But in most cases, stress is very negative and it can make you feel tired, worried, frustrated, or overwhelmed.
What does stress feel like?
Stress can impact you both physically and mentally. Here are some common symptoms, or effects, of stress:
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Heart beats faster
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Upset or nervous stomach
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Tighter muscles
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Trouble sleeping
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Grumpy, worried, or overwhelmed feelings
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Hard to focus
What are common causes of stress?
Stress can be caused by many things, called stressors. Commonly, this might include:
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Homework or studying for a test
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Sports, performances, or competitions
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Problems with friends
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Changes at home (moving, welcoming a new sibling, etc.)
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Starting something new (school, class, activity, etc.)
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Feeling like you have too much to do
Anxiety
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is kind of similar to stress. Anxiety is your body's way of trying to protect you. It reminds you to pay attention when something feels weird or uncertain.
Anxiety is normal, but sometimes it can stick around even when there isn't any real danger. It might make you worry or stress over things that won't hurt you.
What does anxiety feel like?
Some symptoms of anxiety include:
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Heart beats faster
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"Butterflies" in stomach
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Constant worry
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Trouble falling asleep
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Feeling tense/restless
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Hard to concentrate
"What if" Thoughts
One common sign of anxiety is having lots of "what if" thoughts. These happen when your brain starts imagining things that haven't happened and may never happen.
These worries are very dangerous, but they are easy to get rid of by creating a visual or physical table.
My Worry
My Evidence
Ex 1: I am going to fail my math test.
Ex 1: I didn't study.
Ex 2: I am going to play bad in my soccer game.
Ex 2: I have been practicing all week.
This is an example of a rational worry. While you may not fail your math test, it makes sense you feel this way because you didn't study. You can easily calm your anxiety by studying.
This is an example of an irrational worry. You have been practicing all week, so you will play great in your game!
Sadness
What is sadness?
You are probably familiar with sadness. You might feel sad if you have an argument with a friend, lose something important, or miss someone you care about.
It is completely normal to feel sad. Just like happy feelings come and go, sad feelings do too. It's okay to cry, want alone time, or talk to someone you trust when feeling down.
What does sadness feel like?
When you are feeling sad, you might:
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Cry
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Not be excited about things you love to do
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Feel tired and/or alone
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Want comfort from someone you trust
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Want alone time
And this is totally normal!
When you're sad, sometimes it is best to cry or take some time to be alone. It can help you feel better.
You also might want to talk to someone you trust. It feels good to talk to someone about why you are feeling down.