Staying Safe: How to Protect Your Physical and Mental Health
Peer reviewed by Dr. Barry Wiens & Scott Rollo, PhD
Feeling safe is important for everything you do—at school, with friends, or at home. Sometimes, things can get tricky, and knowing how to stay safe helps you feel confident and ready. Safety isn’t about never taking chances; it’s about being smart so you can enjoy life without getting hurt.
What Is Risk Management?
Risk management means thinking ahead about what might be risky and figuring out how to stay safe. It’s like being a safety detective—looking for things that could go wrong and finding ways to prevent problems.
Checking both ways before crossing the street.
Wearing a helmet when biking or skating.
Setting your social media profiles to private so only friends see your info.
Taking risks isn’t bad if you do it carefully. Trying new things can help you grow, as long as you know how to keep yourself safe.
Taking Smart Risks
Not all risks are dangerous. Some risks help you learn and have fun, like:
Joining a new sports team.
Trying out for a school play.
Making a new friend.
You might not be perfect at first, but practicing and learning from mistakes helps you get better and braver.
How Peer Pressure Can Affect Safety
Peer pressure is when friends or classmates push you to do something, even if you’re unsure. It can be:
Trying risky stunts because “everyone’s doing it.”
Sharing private info online to fit in.
Saying “yes” to things you don’t want to do.
Before you decide, ask yourself: “Would I do this if I were alone?” If the answer is no, it’s probably peer pressure, not your real choice.
Simple Ways to Stay Safe Every Day
Tell someone where you’re going: Let a parent, teacher, or friend know your plans.
Listen to trusted adults: They can help if you’re unsure or worried.
Think before you act: What could happen? Is it worth the risk?
Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands, brush your teeth, and take care of your body.
Learn safety skills: Take swimming lessons, learn CPR, or understand online safety.
Say “No” when you need to: It’s okay to refuse things that don’t feel right.
Safety Skills Around You
Communities offer programs that teach important safety skills:
CPR training can save lives.
Water safety helps if you swim or play near water.
Online safety workshops show how to avoid scams and cyberbullying.
Time to Think
When have you felt pressured to do something you didn’t want to? How did you handle it?
What safety habits do you already do well?
What new skill would you like to learn to feel safer?
The Big Idea
Taking care of your physical and mental safety helps you enjoy life and face new challenges without fear. Being aware, asking for help, and making smart choices lets you stay safe while still having fun and growing.