Kids today have many reasons to feel stressed. From heavy course loads and full athletic schedules, to friendship drama and even violence at school, the stress levels of American students are rising. Environmental problems like climate change contribute to the stress kids feel. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 61% of teens feel pressure to get good grades; and 29% feel a lot of pressure to look a certain way and fit in socially. Plus, there are pressures to be involved in sports, to participate in extracurricular activities, and to get into a good college. Even just dealing with day-to-day life can be stressful and overwhelming.

Combine these pressures and stresses with the increasing rates anxiety and depression among teens, and it is not surprising that improving mental health has become a major concern for both parents and educators. More and more people are turning to mindfulness as a way to help teens to cope with the negative stressors and feelings in their lives.