Question: Hey guys. For context, I’m a grade 11 student who’s been very stressed out and rather depressed throughout their high school tenure so far.
I don’t really get up to much socially outside of school. I essentially go to school, come home, study or do an assignment, and then go to bed. Or on the days I’m not at school, I’m working.
Any ways for me to manage stress/become happier with maintaining good grades? Anything helps. Thank you in advance 😊
Answer: Hi! I’m sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way! I know it’s hard—eleventh grade is an especially challenging year. Even though it’s totally normal to feel this way, you can always consult with your doctor at your annual checkup or make a new appointment! It’s important to think about it in perspective—it’s not your fault that you’re feeling so down, and you’re definitely not alone in this feeling.
Here are a few ways to manage your stress and become happier:
- Talk it out: Chances are that other people feel the exact same way as you! Eleventh grade is a really stressful year so some of your classmates and friends are having the same feelings. Sometimes just talking it through can make a world of difference. Here is something that your classmates may have found helpful: find a trusted adult. A trusted adult can be anyone that you feel comfortable confiding in—whether its your favorite teacher, you mom, or your cool aunt! If you don’t have one, who can you get in your life that can help? Think about the resources available to you—maybe your school counselor is a good person to reach out to. Also—I highly recommend getting a therapist. If you’re worried about money many therapists actually take insurance. Take a look at this website and you can toggle an option to make sure they take your insurance. You can also click this link to text, call, or even chat right now with someone! You can also call The Jewish Board at 844-663-2255 to book an appointment.
- Exercise: Exercise can release endorphins in your body that actually result in making you happier. Find a gym or even a fitness video on YouTube that you would enjoy! Make sure not to overdo it though, everything in moderation.
- Taking a Break: Sometimes it can be nice to find a special place that’s just for you. When you’re in the same environment all the time you may get that feeling that everything is the same and there’s nothing to look forward to. Take a walk and explore the area nearby! Maybe there’s a new frozen yoghurt store you’ve never tried!
- Breaking it down: Take things day by day and make the time for yourself to do something you enjoy. Put it in your calendar and give yourself something to look forward to!
- Get enough sleep: I can’t emphasize just how important sleep is for your overall wellbeing. When you sleep, it’s a reset for your body so it can process everything that happened yesterday and get you ready for a new day! Even though it’s hard, it’s very important to prioritize getting 8 hours a night.
I hope this advice helps you feel better soon 😊
Been There is a peer advice column to help teenagers like us navigate their struggles with advice from older teenagers and peers rooted in the importance of self-care, while reminding you that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Truth, advice, and support from someone who gets it.
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This advice column is provided for informational purposes only and does not qualify as professional advice.
If you or someone you know is in an immediate crisis, please contact 911. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 988 (call or text).
