There are many ways that an individual can relieve stress, but it can be difficult to come up with one thing that works for everyone. Some people have their own methods and some stick to the classics, but in the end, almost everyone has their secrets to decompression after a rough and stressful day.

One way to relieve stress is by listening to music. Listening to music triggers a release of dopamine into the brain, emitting feelings of pleasure, happiness and well-being, according to pfizer.com.

“I listen to music when I’m stressed because it allows me to be in a space where I can feel like myself and not be judged for who I am or what I’m doing, I just have a chance to let myself go,” senior Jasmine Cunningham said. “I believe it gives you a safe space to be yourself while also enjoying yourself knowing no eyes are on you, it’s just so freeing.”

Another way to relieve stress is by playing an instrument. Playing any kind of instrument causes stress levels to decrease. It allows people to focus on an activity that makes them happy and causes the feeling of being productive by making progress, while also releasing serotonin and dopamine into the brain, according to riversidemusicstudios.com.

“When I feel stressed, I like to play an instrument because when you’re playing an instrument, you don’t really need to think about anything else,” sophomore Isabella Harris said. “All you need is to remember the chords, listen to what you’re playing, and relax with it.”

For stressful situations and feelings of uneasiness, try drawing to relieve stress. Studies show that painting, drawing and doodling help manage stress by bringing attention to something new, according to sageclinic.org.

“Drawing can be effective for stress relief because it allows you to express yourself creatively and focus on the present moment while also escaping from stress and engaging in a more calming activity,” sophomore Trinity Ballard said. “It’s also a great way to channel your emotions and thoughts onto paper.”

Another way to calm down is by texting a friend or a loved one. Texting is said to be a prime way of getting an instant feeling of connection and satisfaction in friendships and relationships, according to sciencedirect.com.

“Whenever I’m feeling stressed out or upset, I text my mom,” junior Avery Prost said. “My mom always knows how I feel no matter what emotions I’m feeling; she is my safe place.”

Sleeping can be an effective way to calm down or take a break from stress. When sleeping, the brain takes this time to process emotions, which boosts bad moods. When it comes time to make a difficult decision, or stress overtakes the brain, sleep on it, according to snistaffing.com.

“Taking naps helps me when I’m stressed,” sophomore Hayden Smith said. “Taking naps is relaxing and gives me a break from whatever it is I’m stressing about.”