Mental health among students has had a significant increase over the past decade. Even before the pandemic, 32% of high schoolers (ages 13-18) have an anxiety disorder and about 20-30% have symptoms of depression. Around 7% of high schoolers attempt suicide every year. There’s been a tremendous increase in those numbers during quarantine.  One way to cope with anxiety is to write down your thoughts, this helps you slow down and make sense of your situation.

Another way to deal with it is to focus on your breathing, try breathing in for 4 counts and breathing out for 4 counts for 3-5 minutes, this helps slow down your heart rate and calm you down. Managing depression and anxiety can be quite difficult, we strongly encourage you to reach out to family, friends, teachers, or trusted adults. Everyone matters and everything you do matters. Don’t forget there’s always someone willing to help. If you’re in a tough spot or feel it’s your time of need please reach out. 

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800)-273-8255 

San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services (Mobile Crisis): (209) 468-8686

National Suicide Prevention Online Chat:  https://tinyurl.com/lifelinesupport

Sources: 

https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/how-to-cope-with-anxiety#anxiety-red-flags

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/science-news-about-children-and-adolescents.shtml

http://www.daveneefoundation.org/scholarship/facts-about-depression-and-suicide/

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6932a1.htm#:~:text=The%20coronavirus%20disease%202019%20(,same%20period%20in%202019.