By: Emily Fleischmann

You always hear two versions of the same old classic story: a student is failing school, which accurately represents their headspace. Or, dissimilarly, a student excels in the classroom yet also struggles mentally. The culmination of both examples makes clear that performance in school is not always dependent on mental stability.

 

I personally perform relatively well on assignments, and yet I’m not always as clear minded as some may assume. Anxious thoughts are often overwhelming. Whether they regard my friendships and relationships, education, or other (more personal) topics, overall it can be a hard thing to cope with. After talking with my peers, I’ve heard of the same struggles time and time again. 

 

This problem is worsened because of the assumptions often made about teenagers and their personal lives. We’re called “immature” or “too young to feel” which often invalidates our emotions. Although most teenagers would respond to this stereotype in dismay because of this labeling of negative qualities, our concern is of true regard. People at any age or stage in personal development are capable of emotionally tiring feelings. It could even be argued that teenagers experience unpleasant feelings at an even higher rate than adults.
 

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Inside the Minds of Teens Everywhere

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Growing up causes teens to deal with issues adults may have previously faced. A certain maturity tends to come with each passing birthday a person undergoes, which is accompanied by deeper thinking skills. Although this new ability for students may be a blessing, it also allows for an excessive amount of overthinking which may worsen the mental state of youth. We may question what we know, ranging from less outstanding topics such as why education is crucial for a happy existence, to existential questions like why our existence matters at all. 

 

Now, it goes without saying that not every single teenager thinks these types of questions or that adults sometimes wonder the same things as well. But no matter who is experiencing these emotions, an important first step is to acknowledge them in order to adequately cope. 

 

Here are some ideas that may not solve all your problems, but could possibly help you feel better for the time being:
1. Take a break from social media
2. Hangout with friends
3. (Contrastingly) Spend some time by yourself
4. Confide in a trusted confidant 
5. Treat yourself 
6. Journal
7. Rest
8. Spend time at a comforting/favorite place
9. Exercise
10. Find a new pass time 
11. Meditate
12. Listen to your favorite music
 

Image Citations

1. Houston Public Media

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