As we’ve transitioned from month to month, how often do we take the time to stop and think about where we’ve been and where we’re headed? Today is May 20, 2024. It’s already five months into the 12-month year, and school ends in 14 days. The transition from April to May went by so quickly amid AP and IB exams, and seniors’ last day is just 2 days away.
May is one of the busiest months in the school year, which is why we often forget that in addition to the added stress from exams and all of the excitement during the last month of school, May is also Mental Health Awareness Month.
Prioritizing your mental health is extremely important because it’s very easy for people to get burnt out and fall behind when there is so much going on. It’s easy for exhaustion to take over when there’s constant movement and no time to rest. It may seem like you just have to power through, that there is nothing you can do in moments of chaos. While you cannot ignore your filled calendar, there are definitely ways to destress and keep yourself from feeling overwhelmed.
One thing you can do to stay mindful during May is to focus on the present during moments of worry. One major cause of stress is focusing on what happened in the past or what is going to happen in the future. “Did I say the right thing in my interview?” or “I’m really worried about the test I have later this week.” Rather than focusing on things out of your control, it is much more beneficial to allow yourself to stay in the present and focus on what’s happening right now. This can be done by using strategies like mindfulness, deep breathing, or even just letting go of whatever is worrying you.
Another thing you can do to stay mindful during this month is to take time for yourself. There is always so much going on, especially with AP/IB season. It might feel like you have no time to do anything other than study or work. While studying is an important factor in doing well on your tests, so is taking the time to care for yourself. If you don’t allow your brain to relax, you may find yourself overworked by the time your test rolls around. Some things you can do to relax when you’re stressed are reading books, watching movies, or even just doing things you enjoy, like coloring, working out, or spending time with your family and friends.
“We want students to know counselors are here to help you connect with outside organizations if needed and we can also be an on-demand resource when they’re struggling,” said Novi High School counselor, Andrea Tobis.
Along with these tips, other resources can be found on the National Institute of Mental Health Remember, your mental health is just as important as your grades and success. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Reach out to our high school counselors, a trusted teacher, or any adult you feel comfortable talking to. They’re here to support you!
