Being a high schooler, you have a lot of responsibilities. On top of all these responsibilities, you still must make sure you are taking care of yourself. 

Developing a self-care regimen has been shown to lessen or even eliminate anxiety and depression, as well as reduce stress, improve focus, reduce irritation and anger, boost happiness, and improve energy. One of the most important parts in maintaining a good self-care routine is having a regular sleep schedule. The average amount of sleep every night is 7-8 hours. Sleeping more leads to better grades.

Drinking water throughout the day along with eating is also very important. You should be drinking at least 8 glasses a day. I know time can be consuming but having breakfast before you leave for school is a great way to start your day. If you don’t get breakfast, be sure to allow yourself enough time for lunch and dinner or even snacks. Your brain will get even more stressed if you’re not eating properly.  

I interviewed four high schoolers: grades sophomore – senior. I asked them questions along the lines of their stress levels, what they do to reduce stress, the coping mechanisms they use, do they have a morning routine, and if they are eating three meals a day. 3 out of 4 students said they were stressing about things such as: being in a school environment again, not having friends to start the school year with, and finding their classes around campus. Their ways of reducing stress were all different. Their answers included listening to music, taking walks, getting work done ahead of time and something as simple as watching YouTube videos or shows on Netflix. Moving on to mental health and coping mechanisms.

Neftali Mendoza, who is a senior, explained that he listens to music and has one good friend that has been there for him through a lot, and he talks to her about a lot of things. She’s someone that he can trust, and he talks to her when he feels down.

Marlene Rendon and Trinity Tavarez, who are both juniors, stated that self-affirmations, journaling and playing sports are their ways of coping when they feel down. As well as Vianey Medina, who is a sophomore this year, said that listening to music, talking to friends, and playing basketball are all things that help uplift herself. Making time for our friends is always something to include in your self-care routine because they are your support system and surrounding yourself with people you love can benefit you in the long run. Finally, the morning routine. 2 out of 4 students said they have a morning routine and only one of them actually eats breakfast every morning. Their morning routines consisted of working out, getting ready for school, skin, oral and hair care. Although only one of them eats breakfast, I’m glad all of them said that they include lunch and dinner in their meals. These are all great perspectives of what a high schoolers self-care routine looks like and maintaining it will help your days go smoother and feel like your week is going by faster.  

Even though it’s important to study hard, you don’t have to isolate yourself all the time in order to succeed in class. Socialism is important for teenagers so go outside and have fun with your friends but wear your masks!  Something as simple as going to the movies, out to eat or even just hanging out at each other’s houses. Another thing to include in your self-care routine is not being afraid to ask for help. Ask your parents, friends, teachers or guidance counselors to get the help you need. You won’t be judged for asking for help, these resources are here to support you. Your work will only benefit from taking advantage of the support systems available to you.