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High school. It is one of the happiest times in the life of a teenager, filled with moments like prom, football games, graduation parties, and all of the “firsts” and “lasts” that comprise our greatest memories as adults. But for many in this most recent Class of 2020 (and all the underclassman), the school year was marked with loss and grief. Sports tournaments and special moments were taken away by the COVID lockdowns, and most students finished their year virtually instead. For students who struggle with anxiety or depression, these changes were incredibly hard. I wanted to take some time today to share some ideas and tips that can help you cope during these uncertain times:
-Find someone you trust that you can confide in: It can be really hard to discuss anxiety and depression, especially if you are a strong and independent person. It can feel like a failure of some kind. But it’s truly important that we all have at least one person that we can call without fear of judgment, who will listen and be there for us when we are struggling. This person can be a parent, friend or even a guidance counselor who you feel safe with (Obviously, remember to always use discretion and safety and never engage in inappropriate closeness with a teacher/counselor). It can be as simple as texting a friend and saying “I’m really struggling today”.
-Know your triggers: If you can, try to track your time usage and days to see what may be triggering your feelings of anxiety or depression. Things like watching the news, using your phone or social media too much, over stimulation in social obligations (over-scheduling), stress, or eating/exercise habits. In addition, keep track of what HELPS, such as drinking plenty of water, taking supplements and vitamins, and going to therapy. If you know that turning off your phone once a week and reading a good book/taking a walk is helpful for you, then you’ll be more likely to do it!
-Give yourself permission to feel your emotions: As a teen, it’s tempting to feel all the obligations placed on you: assignments, homework, things to get done…it can be overwhelming. Give yourself some chunks of time to just rest with your feelings, and not be always going a million miles a minute. Whether that’s 20 minutes in the morning to meditate or pray or read, or going to bed without your phone and listening to a podcast instead, it can truly help your mental state to REST and truly step back from your obligations. Another thing that helps is to not procrastinate. The more that you are caught up and have your assignments and obligations fulfilled, the more you will feel able to rest (but remember, you don’t always have to ‘earn’ rest! Your body needs it regardless). Obviously you need to follow through on your commitments, but it’s okay to take a nap or do NOTHING!
-Practice affirmations: The power of positivity isn’t just some cheesy cliche that people like to throw around. Find some great quotes that you love, and use a write-on wipe-off marker to put them on your bathroom mirror where you will see them every day. Remind yourself that you are strong, brave, and kind, and that you can do whatever you put your mind to. We love this quote from Rachel Hollis if you need one to get started: “Comparison is the death of joy, and the only person you need to be better than is the one you were yesterday.”
Remember that every season is temporary. Each hard season is challenging in it’s own way, and taking care of yourself is key to staying mentally healthy. Remember to be kind to yourself!
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