Managing High-School Stress

It’s not uncommon for high school students to feel stressed, overwhelmed and anxious during the school year, especially when difficult courses or heavy workloads are involved. It’s tough to feel this way, but there are many ways to manage those negative feelings so they don’t affect your academic performance or mental health.

Sleep Hygiene
Do you wake up every morning feeling groggy and unrested, as if you never slept at all? Are you staying up late to cram for a test, or finish a long night’s worth of homework? Not getting enough sleep can be very damaging to your mental health. No matter what, try your hardest to get eight hours of sleep each night! If you’re worried about that math test in the morning, not being well rested isn’t going to do you any good. When in doubt, opt for good sleep. You might be surprised how much it helps when you sit down for your test!

Exercise
Even if you don’t play a sport or exercise regularly, there’s a lot of things you can do to move your body: yoga, running, swimming or anything you can do on your own time. Whether you’re doing a cardio exercise video once a week or lifting weights in your garage every afternoon, exercise produces endorphins and reduces levels of stress-causing hormones. If you don’t typically get moving, give it a try and see how you feel. 

Hobbies

Think of the things you love doing but don’t always have time for during the school year. Doing things you really enjoy can boost your mood, calm you down or make you feel relaxed. Whether it’s knitting with your grandma over the weekend or fishing out on a pontoon boat with your friends, make time for yourself to do the things that make you happy. While it’s important to do well in school, you won’t be successful if you aren’t feeling your best. 

Diet

How are you eating? Your diet has a lot to do with how you feel both mentally and physically. If your daily food intake usually consists of processed foods, sugary drinks and very few fruits and veggies, you might want to rethink your meal plan. While there’s no need to avoid the foods you love, adding more nutrients  to your diet can significantly improve the way you feel. Try substituting cereal for eggs and a side of fruit, or pepperoni pizza for grilled chicken and broccoli. Adding in some greens will increase your intake of vitamins, minerals and fiber that your body needs to feel its best. The things you eat can make a huge difference in your mental state!

Mindfulness 

Consider mindfulness exercises! There are many free meditation practices you can find online. Meditation is good for the mind, soul and body and isn’t something that takes a ton of skill or commitment. You can do the exercises right before school for a fresh start to the day or right when you get home to relax and unwind. If stress is something you struggle with, taking a few minutes of your day to collect yourself and relax your mind and body can do wonders to combat the daily anxieties you face. 

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