In Guiding the Hive, EHHS Social Worker Ms. Melissa Dwyer will work through a variety of stressors that EHHS students face. She will provide tips and insight into the problems. Let us know what issues you’d like to see her address next. The responses below are from an interview between Beat Reporter, Isabella Urbano, and Mrs. Dwyer. Isabella asked the questions and Mrs. Dwyer responded.
Do you believe in academic stress?
MD: Absolutely, and she thinks it’s different for different students because some students put more pressure on themselves so it looks different for different kids.
Do you believe everyone has academic stress?
MD: Yes
48% of surveyed EHHS students cite academic pressure as one of their regular stressors – why do you think this is?
MD: I think that many students struggle with executive functioning skills. Meaning that they often haven’t developed effective study skills, time management and organizational skills. There are many different supports provided at EHHS and if they are feeling this way hopefully they will use the resources around them.
How do you think students should cope with academic stress?
MD: Students should cope with academic stress through organizing and prioritizing their work, effective time management, utilizing social and academic support ( communicating with teachers, using office hours and checking in with support staff who can help with processing feelings) and practicing positive self talk.
What do you think are the most significant effects of academic pressure on students in EHHS?
MD: I think the most significant effects of academic pressure are symptoms of anxiety and depression. With out the proper supports this can lead to many issues.
What are your top two pieces of advice for EHHS students to cope with academic pressure?
MD: I think that if a student is feeling overwhelmed they should talk to someone about that, EHHS has wonderful support staff and school counselors in the building that can lead you in the right direction if you are struggling with something. Communicating with teachers and someone at home can help with academic pressure. The teachers here are wonderful and are willing to help kids.
What do you think causes academic pressure to lead to stress?
MD: If a student is finding themselves to be behind in classes and feel it’s not doable and it’s important to reach out to your teachers to advocate for why you are behind or struggling.
What are the potential negative side effects on a person’s mental and/or physical health of feeling academic pressure and stress as a result?
MD: Sometimes if a student is feeling overwhelmed they tend to give up on things and not really put in their best effort and students put too much pressure on themselves and don’t realize how well they can do if they communicate their needs and receive support.
What are one or two things that EHHS students can do to change their daily habits to decrease stress from academic pressure?
MD: One thing they can do is utilize the supports in the building, meaning reaching out to teachers and utilizing the support staff we have here. Another thing is engaging in self care and like after a stressful day at school do something that is enjoyable in positive.
