We’re almost two months into the school year, and the first quarter has come to an end. With this time of year comes the nearing conclusion of fall sports, back-to-school festivities, and what some students may consider to be the easiest part of the academic year. 

But what is something that will continue to last for the months to come? Pressure.  

Let’s face it: we attend an academically rigorous school where going above and beyond can feel like the bare minimum. Late night studying sessions are considered more ordinary than rare. And academics aren’t our only commitment. We have to balance a variety of extracurriculars, ranging from sports to theater, from community service to jobs, or maybe even all of the above. Not only do we have to participate in all of these activities, academic and non-academic alike, but we also bear the pressure to succeed and stand out in them.  

This pressure is universal throughout the school. Freshmen are expected to start planning out the rest of their high school experience after only a brief grace period. Sophomores are taking more difficult classes while discovering new interests through clubs or other activities. Juniors have to deal with standardized testing, AP classes, and the beginning of the college research process. As for seniors, one word always seems to crop up in conversation: college. 

To put it simply, the pressure’s on, and it doesn’t seem to be leaving anytime soon. 

But you don’t need us telling you this. You feel the pressure on an everyday basis. So the question is, what can we do about it? 

The answer is different for everyone. Some excerise or listen to music to de-stress. Others seek refuge in nature. Sometimes, we need a rejuvenating nap. 

“For me, taking a step back from everything and finding something that relaxes me is so important and a big game changer for me in terms of dealing with stress and pressure,” senior and Wellness Service Learning Group member Kylee Wang said.

The bottom line is this: do what you want and need to do to take care of yourself, because your mental health should be a priority.

“It can be a very small thing, but simply finding something that works for you to relax is what I believe to be the best thing you can do for yourself and your mental health,” Wang said. 

There is also another solution that people often overlook: talking it out. There are people in your life who are here to support you, whether that be friends, family, a school counselor, or another trusted figure in your life. You’re not dealing with this stress alone, so you shouldn’t have to bear the burden of it alone either. 

So, take a deep breath and believe in yourself. You got this.