Abstract: Background: Some teens become overloaded with stress. When this happens, it can lead to anxiety, withdrawal, aggression, physical illness, or poor coping skills such as drug and/or alcohol use. When we perceive a situation as difficult or painful, changes occur in our minds and bodies to prepare us to respond to danger. Teens that develop a “relaxation response” and other stress management skills feel less helpless and have more choices when responding to stress.