How do you respond to stress? What are your stress-management techniques?

What You Need to Know
Entry Level Example
Experienced Example
Community Answers

Each person has their tried and true ways to manage stress and practice self-care. As a Youth Worker, you will undoubtedly encounter times of high-stress. For this reason, the interviewer wants to see that you have formed a variety of healthy methods to deal with this inevitable stress. Focus your answer on your response to stress rather than diving into the details of your most stressful situations. Share what you have learned from the stress-management practices you have adopted.

"I've found that physical activity is an excellent stress-reducing technique, so I also walk a lot. You can gauge my stress levels by the number of steps on my Fitbit! I will often go to the gym and work it out on a speed bag if I need to. I also find music to be therapeutic, so I play the guitar. Another helpful method is to read fiction novels, and I get to escape into the characters. Lastly, I love to cook, so I often find myself trying out a new recipe. My family and friends enjoy my kitchen creations, so this approach to stress management benefits everyone."

"As a seasoned Youth Worker, I fully understand the value of stress management. Over the years, I've developed numerous approaches that work like a charm. I practice yoga and meditation, and I also use breathing techniques which help me wrangle in my stress as I am experiencing it. I also journal, and I will type out my thoughts and feelings out on my computer, and then I delete them. I've used this stress and thought-management technique for many years, and it helps when I am processing, and most importantly, to learn to accept the things that I cannot control, and to come to that conclusion in realtime and nip the stress in the bud."

Anonymous Answer

"I take a break and relax by going for a walk or hearing music."

Rachelle's Feedback

These are excellent ways to manage stress in a healthy way :)

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"If I am distressed, I like to exercise by going to the gym or attending a Jiu-Jitsu class, which I do regularly. This helps me let out any physical energy that might be building up inside. If I am emotionally exhausted, I like to journal by writing on my computer. I don't have a specific type of journaling technique, I will simply write whatever is on my mind. I find this allows myself to really articulate my thoughts and how I am feeling, and also enables a feeling of 'getting it out there'. At the moment, if I am stressed, I often take long, deep breaths."

Stephanie's Feedback

Great self-care strategies--it sounds like you do a great job of balancing caring for others and for yourself!

Anonymous Answer

"I deal with the stress that the job has is to leave work at work so when I get home I can focus on other things. Some things I like to do in my free time at home to relieve stress are walking outside, exercising often whether it is yoga or biking. I do mindfulness activities and see my family and friends. All these things help me to cope with the stresses that come with working in this field."

Stephanie's Feedback

This response is authentic and shows active problem-solving skills. You acknowledge the challenges of youth work while sharing your self-care strategies. It sounds like you've worked out a great balance!