Stress is something everyone experiences.
But what we learned in our podcast is that stress can affect young people much earlier than many of us realize. Even before we’re born, stress can begin shaping how our brains develop and how we respond to challenges later in life.
One of the most important takeaways is how much the environment matters. When young people grow up in a safe, supportive space, it helps them feel comfortable expressing their emotions. That kind of space can be at home, at school, or in the community. When kids feel heard and supported, they are better able to handle stress in healthy ways.
We also learned that relationships play a big role in protecting us from stress. Having people you trust, like friends, family members, or caregivers, can make a huge difference. Even small things, like someone asking “How are you?” and really meaning it, can help someone feel less alone.
Another key lesson is the importance of socializing. Building friendships and connecting with others helps us feel supported and understood. It’s not just about having a lot of friends, but about having people you can trust and talk to when things get hard.
In the end, stress is a part of life, but we’re not meant to deal with it alone. Safe spaces, strong relationships, and meaningful connections can help young people build resilience and grow stronger over time.
Elvin Rodriguez Perez, a 13-year-old seventh grader, is a youth journalist at the Strong Mind Strong Body Foundation’s Youth Community Journalism Institute.
