In this day and age, mental health is important; however, it’s not easy to maintain for everyone. Trying to maintain and improve your mental health while keeping up your grades and doing homework can be a hassle, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to do it effectively.
First of all, you have to identify your problems. What’s making you upset and how does that interfere with your schoolwork? What classes are your mental health affecting most? Identifying your problems is a key factor in improving them. Knowing what’s wrong is the only way you can start to fix your mental health and knowing what classes you’re struggling with right now can open up opportunities to fix those grades.
Doing your work as soon as you can (in classes, during study halls, after school) is always recommended. Personally, I feel like it’s a bit of overrated advice. It’s good advice, yes, but sometimes people don’t have the energy to do that. I’m not saying hold it off until the last moment, but you should definitely work on your work when you have the mental energy to, not when you’re struggling to think.
When you are doing your work, take breaks, especially when you’re working at home. One of my favorites is called the 20-10 method. For every 20 minutes you do schoolwork, you take a 10-minute break. Work in comfortable environments you can focus the best in and that can adapt to your needs. Don’t forget to eat something if you’re feeling hungry or have been going at it for a long time, and keep a drink nearby so you can stay hydrated. It’s good to eat healthy, but if you aren’t feeling alright it’s ok to eat something you enjoy. Comfort foods are an important part of keeping up with mental health.
Remember to not overwork yourself! You aren’t required to be social when you don’t feel like it. You don’t have to put 100% into everything you do. You don’t have to be the most helpful or involved person in the world if you aren’t able to handle it at this very moment. It’s good to do those things, but if they drain you more than they do anything else, it’s okay to divert your focus to more relaxing and enjoyable activities.
The most important thing to remember is that you aren’t alone. If you are struggling with your mental state and you need help, ask around. Guidance counselors, teachers, parents, and friends could all help you with any problems you may be experiencing. Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth website has a page for mental health support. The number 988 is Pennsylvania’s mental health hotline if it comes down to those measures. You’re not alone in your struggles, and there are plenty more resources online and in person you can use to get any help you need.
