Hannah thrived in everything she laid her hands upon. Her academics, extracurricular activities, fellowship. They all bloomed and everyone was proud to be associating with her. Her dream to be a doctor one day fueled her passion to always render a helping hand to those who struggled with their studies.
However, as soon as Hannah resumed her final year in high school, things began to go awry for her. The assignments, graduate exams, and constant pressure to impress everyone became a huge burden on her shoulders. As if these weren’t enough stress, her friends wanted her to fit in. They suggested that she joined them at late-night parties, wear expensive fashion brands, and finally date her crush that she’s been stylishly avoiding.
Hannah was uncomfortable with most of their suggestions, but she didn’t want to be labeled as an outcast in the school. She had built her reputation for a long time and didn’t want anything to ruin it at the end. What she did not know was that the combination of these peer pressure and academic stress were more than she could bear.
She tried juggling everything and constantly adjusted herself to fit everyone’s expectations, but it soon crushed her. She was exhausted every day and began to doubt her capabilities. At home, she couldn’t eat much and lost interest in her hobbies. The once outgoing girl began to stay alone for long hours which made her mom very worried. Quickly, she reached out to Hannah’s school counselor who was willing to render assistance to Hannah. It was in one of these sessions that Hannah came to the realization that she had been battling with peer pressure and academic stress.
Peer pressure and academic stress are very common among teenagers across the world. In fact, the American Psychological Association (APA) reported that during the school year, teenagers in America experience more stress than adults. Chronic stress during the teen years can lead to anxiety, depression, suicidal tendencies, and even illness later in life.
Peer pressure, on the other hand, is a psychological problem where individuals feel obliged to follow social norms at the cost of their well-being. According to the United Nations, it can manifest through various avenues such as coaxing friends to partake in risky activities, adhering to group standards, or altering one’s viewpoints to harmonize with their peers.
It can be quite challenging to maintain good grades and still keep an active social life while in school as a teenager. However, there are practical ways that you and any other teenager can manage or effectively cope with these challenges.
Practical Ways to Cope with Peer Pressure
- Develop a Strong Sense of Self
As a teenager, you are still trying to figure out yourself and setting a standard might seem complicated. It is therefore advisable that you abide by the standards laid down by your parents. Sometimes, these standards might seem difficult, but it’s always for your good. In the process, you get to develop a strong sense of self, discovering what you want and what is most suitable for you. Always begin with your parent’s standards especially when it doesn’t destroy your life.
2. Choose Your Friends Wisely
Making decisions about your choice of friends at this point in your life is very important. Friends are capable of making or marring your destiny. Therefore, you need to have good friends who value your principles and respect your choices. Good friends will never force you to do something you are not comfortable with.
3. Practice Assertive Communication
Learn to say “no” confidently. You don’t have to give reasons to anyone as to why you’re declining their requests. Sometimes, when you give them reasons, they are able to successfully convince you that your reasons are not valid, and you should change them. This will make you lose your assertiveness. You may choose not to give any additional explanations for your refusal to stand firm on a decision. A simple, “I’m not interested” or “That’s not for me” is enough.
4. Have a Trusted Support System
It is good to have wise people around you who you can trust when you’re facing difficult situations. Your support team can be your parents, teacher, mentor, or counsellor. These kinds of people who have passed through the journey you’re currently embarking on can advise and direct you. This makes your journey less lonely.
5. Engage in Positive Peer Influence
If you are under pressure, turn the tables. Engage others in constructive activities like volunteering, group reading, sports, or the arts. As you see the person improve, you get encouraged to do that yourself.
How to Manage Academic Stress Effectively
- Plan and Prioritise
Sit down and think about everything you want to do for a day. Then, use a planner to organise your activities in terms of priority. Don’t overlook time to eat, sleep, and enjoy yourself. When you break up your work into manageable-sized tasks you would be able to manage any tension that comes your way.
2. Practice Time Management
The Pomodoro Technique where you study for 25 minutes, take a break for 5 minutes to do other things can boost your focus. It will also prevent you from burning out too quickly.
3. Live a Healthy Life
When you study and do your schoolwork, ensure that you eat well-balanced meals. Your brain exerts a lot of energy when studying which makes you hungrier. Ensure that you get 7-9 hours of sleep in a day and exercise regularly. Your physical health significantly impacts your mental resilience.
4. Embrace Relaxation Techniques
You can meditate, practice deep breathing, or journaling to relax as this keeps your mind calm. A study from Harvard Medical School shows that mindfulness reduces stress and improves concentration. So, take your time to do any of these and relax those muscles of yours.
5. Seek Professional Help When Needed
If you feel that the stress is affecting your daily life, do not hesitate to speak to your parents, guardian, school counsellor, or therapist. Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical well-being.
In reality, the majority of teenagers face the dual challenges of peer pressure and academic stress. This is why attention needs to be paid to them and prompt solutions should be given. Remember that you do not need to do it all by yourself. Speak to people, set boundaries, and prioritize your mental health because your health matters.
