Causes of Stress in Highschoolers

In an LWSD-wide survey that we conducted, we polled the following causes of stress: academic, extracurricular, screen time, friends/social life, and body image. These are the top causes that we found.

#1 Academic Pressure

Taking too many over-challenging classes, maintaining good grades and GPA, and keeping up with all the assignments contribute to academic pressure.

#2 Extracurricular Activities

Juggling multiple activities and tournaments leads to very packed schedules. The pressure to excel in these activities can create an overwhelming sense of performance anxiety.

#3 Friends/Social Life

The desire for social acceptance and fitting in can impact emotional wellbeing. Conflicts with friends can lead to loneliness and stress.

Effects of Stress in Highschoolers

Stress can lead to bigger, more serious problems if it is not properly managed. It is crucial to recognize common symptoms to prevent the extreme, potentially life-threatening impacts that stress can have.

Common Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

Commonly, stress causes headaches, stomach aches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

Behavioral Symptoms

Over-stress gives rise to difficulty concentrating, decline in academic performance, withdrawal from activities, mood swings, and increased absenteeism.

Extreme Effects

Anxiety

"Anxiety disorders are a group of mental illnesses that cause constant and overwhelming anxiety and fear. The excessive anxiety can make you avoid work, school, family get-togethers, and other social situations that might trigger or worsen your symptoms."

- WebMD

Depression

Clinical depression is a mood disorder that makes you feel constant hopelessness or lack of interest in life. Symptoms of depression include change in appetite, increased irritability, feeling worthless, and thoughts of suicide.