Many high school and college students feel overwhelmed by their course loads at one point or another during the year. But in the last few years, since the pandemic hit the United States, students have been expected to learn in less than ideal settings with significant distractions. While some schools have gone out of their way to help students through this confusing time, others have just expected their academic progress to continue as normal. There is so much pressure to perform well and compete with one another, it's no wonder that sometimes this pressure can manifest as discipline or academic issues.

If you believe your child has been subject to unnecessary consequences because of this stress, Lento Law Firm can help. Call today.

Stress Manifestations

According to the American Institute of Stress, nearly half of Gen Z (individuals born between 1997 and 2012) reported feeling a tremendous amount of stress. Further, more than 20% of college students said their mental health got worse the year of the pandemic. When teens and college students experience stress, it can present as withdrawal, aggression, physical illness, or anxiety. These types of coping strategies can lead to further issues, like drug or alcohol abuse.

Possible Academic & Disciplinary Issues

As explained above, feelings of stress can manifest in a number of ways, including academic and disciplinary issues. When students feel like they can't cope with the stress, they may begin to behave in ways they normally wouldn't. For instance, students who feel like they are unable to adequately study for a test may try to sneak in an unauthorized piece of material to use on the exam. Other students may begin starting fights with their classmates, picking arguments with their teachers, or abandoning their classes altogether.

How Parents Can Help Their Child

There are several ways a parent can help their teen or college student when they are undergoing seriously stressful situations or feelings of overwhelm, including:

• Talking to their child about what's going on in their life – the stressful situations and the good ones
• Validating their child's feelings and offering to help them brainstorm coping skills to employ
• Monitoring the child's stress – how their health, behavior, or thoughts are being vocalized
• Making sure to support their child's participation in sports or other positive social activities

Some ways that students might decrease their stress include:

• Breaking large tasks into smaller, more manageable tasks
• Avoiding drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and even caffeine
• Getting enough exercise
• Eating regularly
• Getting enough sleep
• Decreasing negative self-talk
• Learning how to effectively meditate or breathe into their abdomen
• Taking breaks from the stressful situation to enjoy something fun

How an Attorney-Advisor Can Help

The amount of stress students in high school and college experience can be overwhelming. It can stop them from progressing through their courses, halt their graduation, and cause further stress and mental health issues down the line. If you believe your child is suffering from school challenges exacerbated by mental health issues, Attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm can help. Attorney-advisors work diligently to advocate for your child's educational needs. They will be able to help you navigate different proceedings, create a strong defense on behalf of your child, and ensure the best possible outcome for your case. Call 888-535-3686 today or schedule a consultation online. The Lento Law Firm is here to help.