I'm in my junior year and feel like stress just keeps hitting in waves. It seems like each month brings a new set of challenges. Is there typically a 'most stressful month' for high school students, like when college applications are due or finals are coming?
The "most stressful month" can vary depending on a student's academic load, extracurricular involvement, and college application timeline. However, it's commonly noted that December can be a particularly stressful time for high school seniors.
There are a few reasons why December can be so challenging:
1. College Applications: For students who are applying to colleges Early Action or Early Decision, applications are typically due in early November, and decisions start rolling in throughout December. Waiting for these decisions can significantly increase stress levels.
2. Regular Decision Deadlines: For many selective colleges, regular decision deadlines are January 1st or 15th, which means December is crunch time for finalizing essays, making sure recommendation letters are in, and ensuring all parts of the application are ready to submit.
3. Academic Commitments: Many high schools have their first semester final exams in December or early January, which means students must also balance study time for these important assessments with their college application responsibilities.
Remember, while these can be sources of stress, proper time management, planning ahead, and taking care of your mental and physical health can help mitigate these feelings. Seek support from counselors, teachers, family, and friends to manage stress levels effectively. It's okay to ask for help and take breaks when needed.
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