6 Ways to Reduce Your Anxiety Around Prom

I’ll start off by telling you that prom was definitely NOT the most important day of my life, although it looked pretty fly on Instagram. The boy who asked me to prom was my crush of four YEARS whom I discovered in my freshman science class. All went well during the photo portion, but things started to go downhill once we arrived at the prom. I spent most of the evening helplessly searching for my potential prom king on the dance floor (LOL). My dreams of a midnight kiss and love ever after were crushed, BUT I did come out of the experience wishing I knew one thing— how to better manage my own anxiety. Keep reading for six tips I wish I knew when, and text PROM to 38383 for even more.

1. Manage your expectations. High school prom is one of the most over romanticized milestones in mainstream culture. Let go of your assumptions about having the perfect night and just let the music move you.

2. Rejection usually happens in your head. The idea of getting turned down or let down by your prom hopeful can seem daunting. Working up the courage to ask someone isn’t easy, but you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. 😉 After all, regardless of who your date is (or even if you just go with friends), prom is about feeling your best self from the inside out—whatever that means to you.

3. Find a prom PIC (partner-in-crime) 👯: Make sure you have a pact ahead of time with your partner-in-crime to save you from that awkward date, or just to hang and dance with if you don’t have a date. Who knows, maybe your PIC will turn into a wingman/woman/person and help you connect with a special someone on the dance floor...😘

4. Limit your screen time: It’s easy to miss out on the best nights in life being on your phone. Shut it down and enjoy the moment while it lasts. The Instagram can wait. 📱

5. Flash back to your parents’ prom photos: Stressed about a bad hair day or prom attire? Whip out your parents prom pictures for a good laugh and reassurance that fashion trends in 2019 have come a long way. It’s been proven that laughter can help reduce stress and anxiety.

6. Remember, you’re at the finish line: If something doesn’t go as planned, be happy that high school is only a few short years and college will offer you plenty of other opportunities to embarrass yourself. (P.S.) Share hugs, not drugs. 🤗

Still having prom stress about finances, dates, drinking, or sex? We’ve got you. Use our Prom Anxiety Hotline by texting PROM to 38383.

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