Teens Share Their Favorite Small Comforts for Tough Days

What small pleasures help you navigate challenging days?

Recently, creative professionals shared the little indulgences they turn to when facing difficulties—ranging from savoring dark chocolate to watching K-pop performances or hunting for thrifted treasures. Building on this idea, we asked teenagers to offer their own comforting habits.

Below is a curated collection of their responses, including napping, running, confiding in close friends, and spending time with pets.

Please note that student comments have been lightly edited for clarity and brevity.

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Connect with Loved Ones

I find comfort in simply talking with people I care about. Sometimes, I don't need to share what's wrong; just hearing a familiar voice reminds me I matter. Planning hangouts with these special people feels like a light at the end of a dark tunnel—temporary, but enough to keep the darkness at bay.

— Maurisa, Glenbard West High School

Spending time with friends is my go-to treat. After a rough day, being with close friends helps me forget my worries and laugh away stress. As an extrovert, I feel rejuvenated around them, like starting fresh even if the bad day lingers. It doesn't require anything elaborate—just hanging out at someone's house can turn a tough day around.

— Macie, Ellisville

I make sure to take a few breaks each week to hang out with my “Hockey Family” and best friends. These moments cost nothing but mean everything—they allow me to be myself without pretense and truly unwind.

— August, Glenbard West High School, Illinois

Savor a Delicious Treat

A small indulgence I treasure is buying exquisite desserts, like macarons, which lift my spirits. I enjoy them on sunny days with fresh tea and fruit, savoring each bite as a moment of self-care that washes away stress.

— Sunny, Hong Wen International School, Taichung, Taiwan

My grandfather’s homemade steamed buns bring me warmth and comfort, their soft, fluffy texture soothing me on difficult days.

— Alyssa, Branson School

Express Your Thoughts in Writing

Writing down my thoughts after a stressful day helps me process emotions and gain clarity, enabling me to approach challenges more calmly.

— Eve, Norwood High School, Norwood, MA

Recharge with Rest

Taking a moment to nap helps me reset my mind and energy. Instead of dwelling on a bad day, I remind myself that it’s temporary and will pass.

— Summer, Georgia

Get Moving

Running through my neighborhood, greeting familiar faces, and finding a rhythm helps calm my mind and remind me I’m part of a caring community. It keeps me grounded amid a busy schedule.

— Isaac, Ellisville

Playing sports or being active outdoors clears my head and boosts my mood. Physical challenges build my confidence, teaching me resilience both on the field and in life.

— Henry, HWIS

Watch a Comforting Show

Watching my favorite series, like Grey’s Anatomy, paired with snacks, offers a comforting escape that lifts my spirits on tough days.

— Ke’nijalia, Hancock Central High School, Sparta, GA

Fill a Sketchbook

Carrying a sketchbook helps me focus on the present and appreciate small beauties around me. Listing things I’m grateful for and sketching them transforms mundane days into opportunities for discovery.

— Jocelyn, CA

Pause and Reflect

When feeling down, I take time to understand my emotions and connect with the present. Walking or running outdoors with music helps me release stress and regain balance.

— Evelyn, Watsonville

Sometimes, simply doing nothing and slowing down helps me reset and improve my mood.

— Macci, Hanock

Change Your Environment

Taking breaks away from the usual surroundings, like walking dogs or running errands outside, helps me refresh my mind and regain focus, especially when technology pulls much of my attention.

— MC, Norwood High School

Immerse Yourself in Art

Reading or going for a drive with music offers a peaceful escape. Connecting with written or musical art validates my feelings and helps me unwind.

— Tori, Norwood High School, Norwood, MA

Create a Playlist

Music is a comforting constant for me. Crafting playlists that match my mood and singing along helps me relax and process emotions, making tough days more manageable.

— Ian, Norwood High School, Norwood, MA

Music shapes every part of my day—from chores to relaxation—allowing me to escape stress and find peace in my own world.

— Sam, Illinois

Breathe Deeply

Focusing on my breathing helps me calm down, refocus, and stay relaxed during stressful moments, preventing me from becoming overwhelmed.

— Maria, Norwood High School

Play and Connect

Playing with my cat brings me joy and comfort. Its soft fur and playful antics brighten every day, whether good or bad.

— Keynya, Hancock County

Spending time with my little brothers is a treasured luxury. Even though we’re often apart, these moments remind me of the simple joys of childhood.

— Keira, Lexington, Kentucky

Chess.com and puzzles help me stay calm during stressful times. These activities encourage me to reflect on my feelings and maintain a peaceful mindset.

— Anika, New Rochelle

Look Ahead with Hope

I often turn to the song “Tomorrow” from the musical Annie, which reminds me that no matter how bad today feels, tomorrow holds new possibilities. Holding onto optimism helps me keep moving forward.

— Tristan, Glenbard West High School, Glen Ellyn, IL