Dear stressed out friend,

I know it's been a crazy past few weeks, but you're alright! Don't make things worse on yourself.

Breathe in, breathe out. Calm your nerves and relax your mind. Have confidence in the fact that you are doing your best and know that you have a good support system to back you up if you need anything.

Stress is a part of life, but so is choosing peace. It is easy to get lost in the worries and pressures of life, but it would be more beneficial to let go. Work hard in what you do, but then once it's over and done with, do not stress about it. It is in the past.

Sometimes, you just need a break from it all. Take some time out of your day to go outside and enjoy the nice weather. Nature has a natural calming effect and can help to give you a much-needed break.

Do not to focus on the negative stresses, but try to have fun amidst the chaos. Go hang out with friends. Make memories. Laugh a little. Life is not meant to be a boring to-do list.

Also, make sure you're sleeping! It's important that you get sleep during a time of great mental stress. Your brain actually needs that time to rest in order to be able to function well. A lack of sleep and added stress is not a good combination.

You're not alone. Know that I love you and that you can always come to me if you need anything. We can laugh, cry, and eat tons of junk food together. I will always be there for you if you need me. I don’t mind to help you carry your burdens. I would feel like a horrible friend if I didn’t.

There's no need to get all upset and anxious about the things that are going on now, because odds are they are not going to matter later on in your life.

Seek out time for prayer. Having quiet time devoted to something other than school can help you feel less stressed. Being able to remove your burdens for a time and pursue the peace that surpasses all understanding (I suggest reading Philippians 4:7) allows for a time of refocus and will help you accomplish more.

Friend, you are talented. The standards you are trying to meet cannot even begin to scratch the surface of uncovering the amazing person you are. You have so much value and worth that is not tied to any number. You have value because you are who you are. Don't worry about the days ahead because as long as your character perseveres, you're going to be just fine. I believe in you, and many more believe in you, too.

Sincerely,

Your friend