Looking into your class, you may see students of all races, genders and cultures. However, one thing many high school students share is their mental health struggles, whether it be stress, depression or even suicidal thoughts.
According to the Compass Health Center, 22% of teenagers have seriously considered attempting suicide. To put this into perspective, if the average classroom has 24 students, then around five of them have contemplated suicide.
Although students are offered resources, not all of those students actually reach out in fear of being a burden or being judged.
I have many peers and friends who have experienced situations in which they should have been able to access help without being worried that it would become a conversation with parents or other authorities in the school.
Homework is a huge factor of stress for high school students. According to Healthline, more than 70% of students say that they are ‘often or always stressed over schoolwork, with over half saying that their main reason for stress is homework.
While certain individuals may say that homework can help review what was taught in class, I feel that teachers should give students class time to review. Students should be able to learn the material they need within class time.
When students have multiple activities or clubs, responsibilities and homework on top of that, it just causes unnecessary and avoidable stress.
For me, there are days I have to stay after school until 5 p.m. for afterschool activities, then I have to go home, do chores, and then on top of that, I have homework from multiple classes. All of this homework makes it hard to get a good amount of sleep and be focused enough to learn the next day.
Although it is talked about, another factor that can lead to depression and suicide in students is bullying. Studies show that one in every five students has been bullied.
Students who are bullied are at a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety and even suicidal thoughts. Bullying can affect nearly every aspect of school from making friends to staying awake during class and even succeeding in school.
One way that the effects of bullying could be reduced would be having an anonymous QR code or link where students could go to let out their emotions and feelings without fear of judgment or getting in trouble.
Some students may also fear the consequences of having stress due to cultural stigma around mental health.
Many cultures have different views and worries, including fear of racism, wanting to appear perfect or just preferring to lean on family rather than telling someone trusted.
With homework, cultural differences and fear when it comes to reaching out, it is very hard for students to manage their mental health and school life all on one plate. Adults should be more understanding when it comes to stress within students.
Regardless of culture, race and gender, all students deserve to be cared for even if they are not open about their mental health. Checking in on a friend, student or family member can go a long way.
