As high school seniors stand on the threshold of adulthood, they find themselves facing a myriad of challenges that can significantly impact their mental well-being. The academic demands of final exams and college applications, combined with post-pandemic distress and the uncertainty about the future, create a perfect storm for mental health issues.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2021, more than 37 percent of high school students reported they experienced poor mental health during the pandemic, and 44 percent said they persistently felt sad or hopeless the past year. Some of the challenges they faced included emotional and physical abuse from parents. More than 29 percent of these teenagers reported a parent in their home losing a job, adding to their traumatic and mental health stressors.
In addition, the impact of post-pandemic stressors related to social isolation, family dynamics, parental substance use, and the loss of routine, particularly milestone events like graduations, proms, athletics, and birthdays, which are integral in adolescent development can impact mood and overall quality of life. Also, while isolated at home, adolescents had limited or no access to the myriad of support opportunities from teachers, peers, coaches, or school administrators who served as role models.
Contributing Stressors
Understanding the factors that contribute to the challenges faced by seniors allows for a more empathetic approach towards their mental health. Some factors include:
• Academic Pressures: The pursuit of high grades and the pressure to excel academically in the final year can lead to heightened stress levels. Seniors often feel the weight of expectations from themselves, their parents, and their teachers.
• College Transition Anxiety: The anticipation of stepping into the unknown world of college brings its own set of anxieties. Seniors may grapple with questions about fitting in, making new friends, and adapting to a different academic environment.
• Identity and Future Uncertainty: High school seniors are at a crucial juncture where they are expected to make decisions about their future careers and life paths. This uncertainty about identity and the road ahead can be overwhelming.
• Social Dynamics: As the dynamics of friendships and relationships evolve, seniors may experience changes in their social circles. The fear of losing connections or facing social isolation can contribute to mental health challenges.
• Transition to Adulthood: The realization that high school is coming to an end brings with it the responsibilities and expectations associated with adulthood. This transition can be daunting, as seniors grapple with newfound independence and decision-making. Initiatives such as counseling services, stress management workshops, and creating a supportive community can play a pivotal role in helping seniors navigate this challenging period and emerge stronger as they embark on their next chapter in life.
Strategies to Improve the Mental Health of High School Seniors
• Self-Care Routine: Encourage the development of a regular self-care routine that includes activities they enjoy (art, crochet, design, reading) and find relaxing. Incorporating morning and bedtime routines strength
• Open Communication: Foster an environment where students feel comfortable discussing their feelings with friends, family, or counselors.
• Time Management: Help them develop effective time management skills to reduce stress related to academic and extracurricular demands.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Emphasize the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep for overall well-being.
• Stress Reduction Techniques: Introduce exercise, yoga, diaphragmatic breathing, or relaxation techniques to help manage stress and anxiety.
• Setting Realistic Goals: Encourage setting achievable goals and breaking larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
• Peer Support: Promote positive peer relationships and peer support networks to create a sense of belonging.
• Professional Guidance: Make them aware of available mental health resources, and encourage seeking professional help if needed.
• Future Planning: Assist in realistic future planning, acknowledging that everyone’s journey is unique and there’s no one-size-fits-all path.
High school seniors often find themselves facing a myriad of challenges that can significantly impact their mental well-being. By encouraging strategies such as self-care, open communication, time management, and other lifestyle changes, we can equip seniors with a holistic approach to mental well-being.
Self-help information and information from the internet is useful, but it is not a substitute for professional advice. If you are currently in treatment or in therapy, please consult your therapist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional.
