You Are Not Alone
Students are becoming overwhelmed by the pressure from peers and the need to succeed academically.
September 30, 2022
All around the world, students are battling various mental health issues. Often, people expect them to work through these challenges alone, but in reality, there are numerous resources they can reach out to. Whether it is working out a small, temporary issue, or making a huge change in mentality, help can be found almost anywhere. Schools are trying to create a safer space to help address and improve these mental health issues.
Schools around the country are starting to implement various ways to check in on their students. Last year, 76% of U.S. public schools reported an increase in signs of anxiety and depression in students (NPR). As we are now recovering from the pandemic, schools hope to open more conversations about how students are feeling. In addition, the Suicide Prevention Hotline is listed on the back of Student ID cards for emergencies. Lili Sebestyen (10) noted, “Student mental health is important because in order to prioritize school, we need to be healthy.” Schools have to be wary of students’ well-being because untreated or undiagnosed students may face a large toll on their academic abilities. If educators start providing safe spaces for students, it removes the stigma of mental health awareness. This will allow for more students to be able to acknowledge and improve their mental well-being.
With that being said, students are often too scared to share their feelings, so they need other healthy coping mechanisms. While balancing school work and extracurriculars, students can feel overwhelmed and stressed. Student-athletes commonly experience mental exhaustion, anxiety, and depression (NCAA). Increased reports of student-athletes committing suicide are bringing attention to the declining mental health of students. The main issue they face is the issue of not having a mental health-friendly environment (Nami). In order to improve one’s mental health, one must be surrounded by positive things that will help boost it. Schools around the country hope to create a better workspace for everyone.
Additionally, there are numerous ways for people to be able to destress by themselves. It may be inconvenient or even scary to reach out while struggling, so students can try taking little steps themselves. Although it may seem unproductive, sometimes stepping away and taking a break is the best way to relax. While relaxing, exercise can be an active and healthy way to reduce stress. It is proven to lower levels of anxiety and depression, which could help improve cognitive function (NIH). While taking a break, it’s encouraged to avoid social media because the connection between social media and teenagers’ mental health is closely related. It’s best to just take the time to settle down and regather your thoughts. This way, you can be as productive as possible once you return from your break.
No matter how scary it is, students must know they are not alone in their battles. There are support systems almost everywhere around them. Although some students need more help than is provided, schools are working to provide as much comfort to students as possible. Not only that, but it’s also important for students to be able to calm themselves and relax. Hopefully, in the future, we will have a more open environment to be sensitive to student mental health.
