Minimizing School Related Stress

Anna Wurst '26   ~   April 2023

As the end of the 2023 school year draws nearer, many students find their schedules packed with projects, homework, studying, extracurricular activities, and numerous other responsibilities. Many students believe that if they can push through to the end of the year, their stress will instantly disappear. Sure, many have a chance to take a break for the summer; however, we will never completely escape stress. Stress follows us throughout our years of education and into our adult lives. 

If we can learn how to minimize our stress, we can enjoy our activities and make the most out of our challenges. Here are three ways we can minimize the stress that comes along with daily life:

1. Plan. It is often difficult to focus on one commitment at a time when responsibilities build and deadlines come closer. Planning ahead can help us avoid procrastination and the stress that comes along with it. Although planning seems simple, it is much easier said than done. It takes self discipline to get work done ahead of time, and sometimes responsibilities pop up unexpectedly. Still, it is incredibly overwhelming to come home after a long day to a list of work due the next day. It is far less stressful to finish small amounts of work every night than to let schoolwork build up.  

2. Sleep. Sometimes, we end up with a long list of school work due the next day. Still, sleep should be a top priority! According to the Center for Disease Control, “Children and adolescents who do not get enough sleep have a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, injuries, poor mental health, and problems with attention and behavior” (cdc.gov). Not getting enough sleep each night can have lasting effects on both mental and physical health. When we are tired we tend to work inefficiently.

3. Breaks. This appears different for everyone, but it is important for managing stress especially with a heavy workload. Relaxation can be reading, exercise, talking to a friend, or practicing a hobby. Taking a break for 15 minutes every hour will allow for more productive work time. 

Managing and minimizing stress is not an easy task. When we feel we have planned ahead, another event or task presents itself. There are also stressors that are completely out of our control. In these cases, all we can do is try to manage this stress by finding personal ways to relieve our stress such as hobbies, exercise, or socializing.

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