Take Note on Your Mental Health in High School!
Studying for the AP, A-Levels or IB, it can be stressful for high school students, especially juniors and seniors. We get you. Students can be under immense pressure; they have to excel in their academics, athletics, work experience and community service all while trying to maintain a healthy social life, pursuing the same end goal - getting into a prestigious university like the Ivy Leagues, Oxford, Cambridge, etc.
Although high school can be really difficult at times, it is important to remember that there are ways to manage these challenges. Remember, you cannot perform to the best of your ability both intellectually and physically when you are not feeling your best. By maintaining habits that boost mental health, not only can you be happier, but also achieve great success. Learn ways to boost your mental health and well-being!
“Mental health can perpetually impact the student’s academic learning and levels of achievement.”
- Stay hydrated
According to Harvard University, staying hydrated is crucial to being healthy and making sure the heart, brain and muscles, as well as other body systems are maintaining their function and working efficiently. Research indicates that students are able to retain more information and focus for longer periods of time when they are well hydrated. Having improved brain, heart and muscle function will help you to excel in your academics and athletics.
- Create some me-time
Self-care usually refers to activities that people engage in to relax or help themselves with their emotional well-being. Activities such as dancing, watching a favorite TV show, painting or reading are examples of self-care routines. The easiest way to incorporate self-care into your schedule is to try to make little changes in your routine that provide more time for fun. Incorporating self-care into your schedule can boost your resilience and energy levels during hard times.
- Get enough sleep!
Studies have shown that sufficient sleep helps our brains improve learning skills, memory, and overall emotional health. When this type of sleep is disrupted, our neurotransmitters and stress hormones are also disrupted, throwing the body out of rhythm for days. Yes, this means that you shouldn’t fall asleep on Netflix every night. Also, try not to drink caffeine too late in the day or at night. Integrating these sleep practices into your day will ensure strong mental health.
“Did you know teenagers should get no less than 8 hours of sleep a day!”
- Plan your schedule ahead
For a busy high school student, this means knowing when you have a big event or busy weekend. This means knowing when your tests are or when your next group project is due. For example, writing a personal statement for applying to colleges can be very time consuming. As the deadline comes near, when you’re still left with an empty document, it can be stressful. Therefore, it is important to plan your work ahead and have an insight into how you should manage your time completing all your personal statements! Knowing where and when important events are is a crucial life skill that prepares you for things so they don't sneak up on you. Learning how to accommodate around your weekly schedule is a skill that will last you a lifetime.
- Get Active
While school can be grueling enough and it may be hard to muster the energy or the time to do something physical, it is important to make time to focus on physical activity. This could mean participating in team sports, running, doing yoga, or another physical activity. Regular exercise causes the body to release different chemicals that positively affect the brain like dopamine and serotonin. One group of these chemicals is called endorphins. These endorphins and physical benefits will help reduce levels of stress. A consistent exercise routine equips students to handle stressful situations and maintain their overall wellbeing.
All in all, the goal for high school students should be to maintain a consistent routine that bolsters their mental and mental health. We should always focus on our mental well-being, psychological and physical health! By following the tips above, you can get ahead and stay ahead in all areas of your lives. Remember, we’re always here for you! Check our website for more information or Instagram to join our welcoming community!