With regular decision applications right around the corner, many seniors are finding it extremely difficult to balance school and applications.

With managing extracurriculars, senior coursework, along with multiple college applications, things can get very stressful very quickly. 

Depression and anxiety can also play a huge role in the admissions process. From waiting for college decisions to staying on top of schoolwork, many mental illnesses can worsen under these conditions. 

“I designated Saturday as my “get stuff done” day. This way, I’d have Sunday to relax before going back to school. I also listen to lofi music to keep me relaxed and focused on the assignment,” said senior Rahiel Berhe 

It can be extremely hard to manage the work as it is, however adding on IB classes can also take a toll on one’s mental well-being.

In the last week before break, almost every IA draft is due for all IB classes. On top of that, the extended essay was due just a few weeks ago as well. 

A huge aspect of the college process is rejection. Whether it’s being rejected from a dream school or a scholarship, this can play a huge role in students’ stress levels.

Although it is inevitable, there are many ways to cope with rejection from colleges such as opening up to someone, reflecting on the acceptance, and moving forward. 

If you are feeling stress, depression, or anxiety, especially surrounding the school, there are many adults in the building that you can talk to. Some are teachers, counselors, school phycologist, and the IB coordinator. 

For students to avoid falling down a rabbit hole of unhealthy coping mechanisms, it is important to build healthy habits surrounding school/ college work.

Having a balanced life that includes time for hobbies and social activities with friends is critical to maintaining a healthy well-being. 

“Although college can be really stressful, I make it my goal to not let it overwhelm me. With maintaining my athletics and academics, it’s important for me to prioritize my mental health as well,” said senior Shahidah Kargbo

“Some ways I keep a healthy mind is by sleeping a sufficient amount every night and spending time with my loved ones,” said Kargbo

Children face intense competition for a limited number of college spots. Applying to college can be extremely stressful and have a negative impact on a student’s mental health. 

It’s crucial to keep in mind that having the right perspective, being adaptable, and not comparing oneself to others will help students and parents deal with the admissions procedure.

“I try to be heavily involved and attentive to my extracurricular activities as much as possible. Because of this it can sometimes cause stress with school/ college but it is getting easier as I am submitting more applications,” said senior Jena Saykamphone 

The pressure to get into a good school, maintain good grades, and excel in extracurriculars is all up to seniors on keeping up with.

According to research, many teenagers are coping with mental health issues prior to beginning the college application process, which may make them more susceptible to rejection. 

More than 30% of young people aged 13 to 18 struggle with anxiety. From 12 to 17 years old, 13% of children experience depression. 

Having to attain the best possible exam results, grades, essays, and extracurricular activities only add to the stress they already experience.

​​If you or someone you know is in immediate distress or is thinking about hurting themselves, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or the toll-free TTY number at 1-800-799-4TTY (4889). You also can text the Crisis Text Line (HELLO to 741741) or go to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website