High school is hard. But so is every other part of your life. Getting through school lessons, piles of homework, and hours of extracurricular activities takes a serious toll on mental health. At the same time, high school students need to maintain social connections, such as hanging out with friends and being present at community and family events.
High school stress is unavoidable, so how can it be improved?
Studies show a clear answer: School breaks.
Breaks during the school year allow students a chance to recharge, refocus, and reset. One aspect of this process is spending time with the right people; winter break allows plenty of time for this to happen.
“Winter break is good for students because it’s a break from schoolwork, and students get to spend time with family during the holidays and the new year,” said Skyline freshman Nandika Menon.
Mental health studies have shown adolescents that spend time with family and friends had up to a 1.26-point lower CES-D score, a measurement of depression by the Center of Epidemiologic Studies. According to the Windermere Preparatory School, sharing internal conflicts and feelings with loved ones also supports positive mental health.
Time with friends and family is important, but only when used wisely.
For this, focus on quality time over a set quantity. Instead of spending hours doing something pointless, accomplish something worthwhile, even if the experience is short. Being grateful and present is crucial to making this time meaningful and creating memories which last far longer than the time spent physically together.
Also, remember physical activity. Spend time with loved ones outside, to get your daily minutes of exercise. Exercise releases endorphins, serotonin and dopamine, which are all “feel-good” chemicals. The Lewis County Herald suggests that spending time outside can also help with mental health, especially if it’s with family.
This winter break, spend more time with family instead of cooped up in your room. Text your friends and meet up, instead of scrolling on social media.
Take the initiative and please spend your time wisely.
For more information:
School Winter Break: How Students Can Make the Most of Their Time Off
