The following is a comprehensive article on the subject of school-related stress and depression in teens, incorporating information from various sources and providing insights into the root causes, effects, and strategies for addressing school stressors that may contribute to feelings of depression in teenagers.
School pressure
The constant need to perform well in school can lead to feelings of anxiety and sadness. Students may feel overwhelmed by the demands of schoolwork, exams, and the pressure of getting into college, which can lead to feelings of perfectionism and low self-esteem.
Social stressors
School settings can also be challenging for students who struggle with social anxiety or are simply more shy or reserved, peer relationships can be a source of extreme stress, and transitioning to a first romantic relationship in high school or college can also be emotionally challenging.
Over scheduling
Between homework, extracurricular activities, socializing, and after-school jobs, high school students do not have enough time to relax and replenish, leading to burnout, sleep deprivation, and not enough time spent with family.
Additional factors in adolescent depression
Experts believe that today's adolescents have lower resilience than in the past, making them more vulnerable to stress in school. A lack of coping skills and a still-developing brain can also contribute to adolescent risk behaviors and substance abuse, negative impacts of social media, and more.
Helping teens cope with depression
There are several strategies for helping teens cope with depression inschool settings.
Engage in outdoor activities
Regular exercise
Meditation and mindfulness
Getting enough sleep
Practice self-care
Seeking support from friends and family, or a trusted adult figure at school
Attending counseling
Regular therapy
Managing school-related stress
October 10, 2024