Dear KayJay:

I am 16 years old attending Red Bank High School in Chattanooga, Tenn. I am stressed out because I'm busy with school work, taking care of my siblings, hanging out with my friends, and my job. But I can't seem to get things done. Every time I try something, I seem to stop what I'm doing, and then start another task, and then another, but nothing get done! Help fix my life!

Overwhelmed


Dear Overwhelmed:

I am hearing you say that you feel overwhelmed managing your responsibilities. Sometimes you have to set aside time to reflect on what means the most to you, and then prioritize your tasks based on importance. I cannot fix your life, but you have the power to take control of your life. Is your job more important than you school work, is hanging out with your friends more important than helping your parents out with your siblings. What matters the most to you? I cannot answer those questions. You have several options: you could reduce your hours at work to catch up on your school work, you could hang out with your friends on weekends rather than throughout the school week, you could communicate to your parents when you need more time to focus on your major assignments in school. You should try speaking to your school nurse or family doctor about ADHD(Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder). Some of the symptoms associated with ADHD are lack of attention, inability to follow through on task, forgetfulness, and easily distracted. I am not licensed to give medical advice, but there's is no harm in learning about the symptoms and whether it applies to you. Most teenagers experience overwhelming situations, so you are not alone.

Xoxo Kay Jay