𝓩𝓸𝓮 𝓥𝓪𝓼𝓼𝓪𝓵𝓵𝓸

The wellness expo allowed us to identify problems that teenagers face that affect their mental health and develop solutions and strategies to help enhance their well-being while providing strategies to resolve the issue. In small groups, we were to represent our ideas in a stall that we would present to the rest of the year 9 cohort. 

Our group focused on addressing school-related stress, a constant problem in today’s society. 

While completing this task, I researched how school-related stress is caused. A few reasons are:

1. Academic Pressure: Teenagers often experience stress due to high academic expectations, including homework exams and the pressure to excel, as well as parental expectations and family dynamics, which can increase teenagers’ stress levels.
2. Peer and Social Pressure: Teens may face stress related to social dynamics, peer relationships, bullying, and the desire to fit in; not only can social pressure affect teens, but School policies, workload, and the overall educational environment can influence a teenager’s stress levels. Due to all this pressure, Teens may experience stress related to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.
3. Extracurricular Activities: Balancing extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, and part-time jobs, can contribute to stress, which is also tied in with learning to manage time effectively is crucial for teens but can also be stressful.

I also researched ways to cope with the stress caused by school; a few methods are:

1. Reducing academic pressure: Students should work with educators and parents to create a balanced educational environment that promotes learning without excessive stress. Both parents and educators should set realistic and balanced expectations for academic achievement and overall well-being. 
2. Balancing Extracurriculars and taking time for themselves: Encourage teens to choose extracurricular activities that align with their interests and allow for a manageable schedule. While also encouraging teens to prioritize self-care, including getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in relaxation activities.
3. Communication: Open and empathetic communication with teenagers is vital. Please encourage them to express their feelings and concerns. Encourage teenagers to build support networks among friends, family, and school counsellors. If the student’s stress becomes overwhelming or leads to mental health issues, advise the teen to seek the assistance of mental health professionals.

If I could pass on one piece of advice to young people, it would be to prioritize self-compassion because it promotes resilience, reduces stress, supports mental health, nurtures healthy relationships, motivates, and contributes to long-term well-being in a challenging world.

I pledge to prioritize my well-being by caring for my physical, mental, and emotional health. I will commit to regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management. I will also nurture my mental and emotional well-being through mindfulness, self-compassion, and seeking support when needed. I will stick to these commitments by creating a well-being plan, setting achievable goals, and regularly assessing and adjusting my efforts to ensure a healthy and balanced lifestyle.