Your dress, your date, your friend's dress, your friend's date, your other friend who wanted to buy the same dress and then that other friend who tried to steal her date -- let's face it, prom's a serious source of drama. A lot of times, it's totally fun to get caught up in it (who can resist the occasional scandal?) but if you're feeling like you're ready to give up (or strangle the next person who questions your romantic status) don't do it! Just take a well-deserved breather. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, then try out one of our tips for stopping pre-prom stress.

HAVE A SNACK It's time to ditch your diet. If you've been cutting calories a bit too dramatically, it's no wonder you're feeling strained and grouchy -- even if your head was in the clouds, your stomach would still be mad at you. And even if you've been sticking to your usual eats, a little nosh can help you to feel better. Why? A wholesome snack that's also high in carbohydrates (like a PB&J sandwich on whole-grain bread or some fresh fruit) will boost your levels of serotonin, a brain chemical that makes you feel good. And don't freak about the carb thing -- we don't want to sound like Mom, but if we're gonna get technical here you are still growing which means you need a well-rounded diet (including those evil carbs).

TAKE A BATH A good soak will relax your muscles and your mind. For optimal stress-quenching results, add a bath salt that'll moisturize your skin and help you loosen up with a soothing scent. We love Aromatherapy Hydrotherapy Skin-Conditioning Fine Sugar Soak ($20, Bath & Body Works stores nationwide. You use it by the capful, so it should last you through approximately a gazillion baths). It's got super skin-soothing ingredients like sugar, oatmeal, and marshmallow, plus the heavenly scent (calming chamomile, rose absolute, and myrrh) will ease your troubles. P.S.: As long as you're lying around in warm water, it's a great time to scrub-a-dub and really exfoliate problem spots. Use a pumice on your feet and a loofah on your knees and elbows for extra polish. You'll step out of the tub a whole new (stress-free) person.

MAKE A LIST Do you feel like your prom to-dos are piling up, and you're about to get buried beneath them? Rather than trying to juggle your salon appointment, picking up the boutonniere, and re-re-confirming the limo in your head, make a list. Putting it all on paper will make it seem much more manageable. You're less liable to forget things, and you'll get the utter satisfaction of checking off each task you complete.

HAVE SOME H2O When you're feeling swamped (whether it's a big test coming up or just the next prom committee meeting), it's totally natural to go for a caffeine fix. But coffee, soda, and energy drinks don't just jack you up -- they also totally dehydrate you, leaving you feeling even more worn out when the buzz wears off and you come crashing down later. Next time you feel the urge for a java jolt, grab some water instead. It might not be the most amazing wake up call, but over time you'll find that if you're properly hydrated, you'll feel better overall -- much less fatigued and achy. If you feel like you really need a little something extra, try a bottled water like Glaceau SmartWater. It's laced with electrolytes (they rehydrate you pronto) and it's calorie-free -- can't say that for soda.

STRIKE A POSE Make like Madonna and take a yoga break. It'll give you a quiet moment to yourself (shut the door and put the cellie on vibrate) and keep you limber. If you've never tried yoga before, start simple. The lotus position is the basis for most other yoga and meditation poses, and even though doing it properly takes a lot of practice (and a lot of flexibility) after a few tries you should be able to work up to it. Sit on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you. Bend your right knee and gently place your right foot on your left knee (or as close to your body as possible). Now bend your left knee and place your left foot on your right knee. (See what we mean about flexibility? If you feel uncomfortable, keep one foot on the ground.) Now place your wrists on your knees, palms facing up. Relax your wrists and fingers -- if you want to really do it right, touch your middle fingers with your thumbs. Sit up straight, and hold your head in a comfortable position. Then take some deep breaths (try to pull air from your stomach, not just your diaphragm), and relaxxxxx.

TAKE IT OUTSIDE When you need to clear your mind, there's nothing like getting a breath of fresh air -- literally! Take a brisk walk or jog outside -- maybe some music, no cell phone, just you. And you don't have to go totally off the beaten path. Even a circuit around your neighborhood will work. Zone out on what's going on around you (okay, still watch out for traffic) and concentrate on the rhythm of your strides. You'll find yourself feeling pretty zen in no time. P.S.: Besides, a little exercise (pre-prom or not) never hurt anyone!