Balancing studying and completing assignments for seven classes each semester is a challenge for anyone, especially when a week is jam-packed with tests and projects across multiple subjects. Add in commitments to clubs, sports, and jobs and it can feel nearly impossible to manage all of these responsibilities and meet every deadline. As an active participant in several extracurricular activities and a member of multiple AP and honors-level classes here at Ipswich High School, I’ve certainly had my fair share of  stressful and overwhelming moments. These situations often force students to make sacrifices, and unfortunately, it’s usually their health that suffers. 

It’s no secret that stress can have seriously detrimental effects on young people. According to the National Library of Medicine, “Regarding school-related stress, the role of stressors stemming from family and parental expectations, teacher expectations, or peer pressure is significant. Chronic stress during the prepubertal period can affect the hypothalamic  – pituitary – adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to eating disorders, which can also be a possible “trigger” for unhealthy eating habits, with long-term consequences on childhood obesity that can persist into adulthood.” When asked about the role of stress in her life, senior Jenny White expressed, “It’s definitely a lot to handle. I’m always having to prioritize completing my schoolwork over getting enough sleep. I wish I didn’t have to, but I just don’t have time for it all. It makes me question how worth it it all really is.” As a leader of several extracurriculars, including serving as the president of the Interact Club and captain of the track team, while also taking difficult classes, including multiple AP courses, Jenny’s schedule is filled, and it can be quite overwhelming. The consequences of school-related stress are often seen by peers, parents, and teachers. Whether through physical or emotional signals, there are many ways to recognize someone is suffering with stress, including symptoms of fatigue, anxiety, anger, and many more. Ipswich High School math teacher Mary Manos voiced her opinion on seeing these effects on students, stating, “The recent push for students to do so much is creating stress levels that are so high and can be so damaging to students. It can cause them to completely shut down and lose focus.” With all the priorities of students’ lives, the effects of stress can leave long-lasting negative impacts on their health. 

Although there’s many negatives associated with school-related stress, there can be some positives too. For example, White shared, “Despite these negatives, having to manage so much at once definitely does help me learn time management skills.” With scheduling club meetings, making it to practices and games, studying, and finishing homework, scheduling out your day is a key strategy to spend your time wisely. By practicing time management, students can master this key skill that will benefit them throughout their lives. Additionally, participating in various extracurricular activities allows students to have new experiences with different people. For example, Manos described, “Extracurriculars are a good outlet for people to experience new things and feel accomplishment in activities outside of the classroom.” While academic achievement can be very fulfilling, participation in other activities can provide other sources of accomplishment. 

So, how can teachers and students help reduce the harmful effects of school-related stress? White stated, “It’s most helpful when a teacher is flexible and understands the amount of pressure we have on ourselves from all our classes and other commitments. That’s when I feel the most supported.” By offering flexibility with deadlines, teachers can create an environment where students feel encouraged and can find a better balance between all of their responsibilities. Comparatively, Manos shared, “Learning a craft such as knitting, sewing, or some form of art can be a way to take out some stress and relax during overwhelming times.” Furthermore, Psychology Today states, “A growing body of evidence shows that making art—painting or drawing, dancing or singing, poetry or journaling—is a smart way to build coping skills, manage emotions, relieve stress, and express oneself.” Additionally, practicing techniques such as taking breaks during long periods of studying gives students time to relax and clear their heads before diving back into their work. Prioritizing getting enough sleep is another frequent sacrifice during busy times, and although it may seem like there’s no time for it, making the time to take care of yourself is key to reducing the negative consequences of school-related stress.