Is caffeine a routine part of your morning? Your friends’ mornings? Teachers’? How big of a role does caffeine play in our mental focus? Since the 17th century, caffeine has become a staple in morning routines across the globe. However, are we fully aware of the effects the stimulant has on our well-being?
Students in high school across the country typically experience drowsiness and inability to concentrate, especially during the morning hours. At IHS, it’s no different. Students can be found sipping on coffee, energy drinks, and tea throughout the early hours of the school day. Student Alexandra Angell claims that morning runs to Zumi’s coffee and espresso are popular among students and that most regulars “cannot function” without their iced latte from Zumi’s. She also claims that other popular caffeinated beverages include Alani and Celsius energy drinks.
Caffeine in the 21st century has greatly surged in popularity among teens in high school. But why? According to students at IHS, it’s less about the taste and more about the short-term cognitive effects. Student Louie Harrington told me, “Caffeine 100% boosts his productivity during class time,” and that his cup of coffee in the morning is the reason he can concentrate during class. But some consequences come along with the benefits of caffeine. Student Alexandra Angell claims her morning dose of caffeine can cause her to “experience jitteriness” mid-morning. Teacher Mr. Caulfield stated that he frequently sees students experiencing energy crashes mid-afternoon, which he believes are “closely correlated with their caffeine consumption.”
According to student Louie Harrington and multiple other sources, students are typically consuming between 150 and 200 mg of caffeine per day, which is 50 to 100 mg above the recommended limit for teens. Experts from the National Institute of Medicine believe that excessive caffeine in teens can potentially contribute to anxiety and depression. In terms of opinion from students at IHS, the consensus is split. Some believe that too much caffeine consumption in teens can contribute to anxiety, but others believe caffeine is not a factor that contributes to being anxious at all.
Whether or not caffeine is a contributing factor to anxiety, it’s important to understand its benefits and consequences. The new influx of caffeine in high school students could unveil potential harms of caffeine. Students at IHS should aim to use caffeine moderately to maintain healthy energy levels and sleep.
