One of the perks that came with physically attending school that students used to take for granted, was the ability to interact with peers, teachers, and other school staff in person. The sudden nature of the pandemic and uncertainty of the future made it difficult for students to thrive emotionally in isolation, and as a result, impacted academic performance.
Although it may seem justifiable to assume the downfall of a teenager's mental health is due to COVID-19, we must account for the estimations that reveal one in five adolescents will suffer from depression in their teen years. Therefore, students and parents must recognize unhealthy behaviours and treat them accordingly.
Signs that a teenager is suffering from depression (HelpGuide):
Sadness or hopelessness
Irritability, anger, or hostility
Frequent crying
Withdrawal from friends and family
Loss of interest in activities
Poor school performance
Changes in eating and sleeping habits
Restlessness and agitation
Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
Lack of enthusiasm and motivation
Fatigue or lack of energy
Difficulty concentrating
Unexplained aches and pains
Thoughts of death or suicide
As the new school year rapidly approaches, here is a list of some suggestions that will promote students' academic success during remote learning, without sacrificing their mental health.
1. Build a Routine
Decide on a routine that will enable the student to learn by preventing boredom and procrastination. Students may consider establishing a space such as a kitchen table or desk that is strictly for the completion of school work. Setting reasonable boundaries on the amount of time spent in said location each day may allow students to feel less bombarded by schoolwork and promote productivity.
2. Take Breaks Outside
When the weather permits, make sure to spend time outdoors for some vitamin D, which helps to elevate mood and ease anxiety (Healthline).
3. Stay Organized
Anxiety in students can intensify from a heavy workload. Staying organized and on top of their work will allow students more free time in which they can potentially connect with friends.
4. Adjust sleep schedule
Teenagers are likely to sleep later at night due to the body's circadian rhythm at that age (KidsHealth). School may further interfere with a decent bedtime, causing teenagers to be up late on devices. In the final weeks of summer vacation, it is beneficial to make an effort to alter the internal biological clock of a teenager. Try stopping the use of devices at least an hour before sleep or taking the time to wind down with the help of guided meditation.
5. Rely on Others
Remind students that they are not alone! Connecting with peers either online or safely in person can prevent feelings of loneliness. Withdrawal from their friends and the activities they used to enjoy is a common sign of depression in teenagers. Isolation worsens depression and during these times, it is easier than ever to succumb to isolating behaviours or urges (HelpGuide).
It was and still is a difficult process for many students to adjust to virtual learning amid the pandemic. Now, students and parents alike can formulate rules and regulations that will allow a student to reach their full potential despite the lack of normalcy from learning behind a screen. As we exist in a crisis of physical health, we must also focus on the mental health of, especially teenagers who can have a difficult time expressing their feelings.
Resource Links
Healthline:
HelpGuide:
KidsHealth:
Hailey Cooper is a grade 11 student from Aurora, Ontario whose favourite subjects are English and Biology. She plans to pursue a career in the health sciences.
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