Navigating End of School Year Stress
Summer break is right around the corner and every student has a different feel for it. Others may feel the excitement of the upcoming warm weather, some may be looking forward to their field trips, prom, and the finale of the school year. But this does not mean that the students’ stressful time is over because of their upcoming final exams, year-end projects, and the anxiousness of waiting for their final grades at the end of the year.
The amount of stress and anxiety they have can be overwhelming which can make it hard for them to feel excited about the great times ahead that come with the ending of the school year.
Role of Parents
As a mother or father, it is crucial for you to be aware of the amount of stress your child is going through at this time of year so that you could provide the right type of support to them as well as avoid putting any excessive pressure on them regarding their academic performance. Your children just want each of their problems solved so it is important that you are there for them.
If possible, plan a family outing to somewhere your child enjoys, have a family game night, take a study break for a dessert treat, or watch a movie together.
The Struggle of Our Children
In these situations, small wins should be celebrated. Most of the time when a student gets a bad grade, he/she tends to focus on that rather than all his/her list of accomplishments. This can make them feel unmotivated which can then affect their other priorities in school.
With less motivation, they feel more pressure to do better and are often ashamed of their work. Taking time to recognize their efforts in studying for an exam, finishing a challenging project, and rewarding them when they get good grades can provide them with positive reinforcement that can calm them down while doing better in school.
It’s also important to engage them in enjoyment so that your child can rest their minds, prevent exhaustion and avoid accumulating stress. Support your child in spending time with friends or taking them somewhere fun so they can distance themselves from school and enjoy themselves. It can be in the form of having a family outing, family game night or watching a movie as a family.
Here are some tips for students to handle their stress well and embrace the end of the year:
Stay Focused
With today’s current technological advancements, you can be easily distracted by watching tv, playing video games or even going out with friends. There is nothing wrong with doing these things as long as you are able to manage your time well. Allotting time for studies is more important than short-term fun. Nothing can beat the happiness of accomplishing all the things that have to be done.
Take Breaks
You can keep your mind and body healthy by taking short breaks. This can help you destress and recover your focus so you can have a better quality of work. Short breaks include taking deep breaths, taking a nap, watching an episode of a series or even eating.
Get Sleep
Time management is very important in accomplishing a task but this doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your sleep for it. Having enough sleep is important for the body to generate sufficient energy and fuel for the morning to come. That being said, pulling an “all-nighter” isn’t healthy for you.
Be Proud of Yourself
You are able to get things done and it’s the end of the school year. Be proud of what you are able to do and now, you get to enjoy the summertime you deserve!
About Us
Reframe Counseling offers its services in Holly Springs & Raleigh, NC. The types and counseling services we provide are counseling for children, counseling for teens, individual counseling, family therapy, parent counseling, and video therapy/teletherapy. We have licensed health professionals for your children’s needs