What is School Pressure?

School is a regular part of childhood and adolescence in North American society. Second to their immediate family, it is the biggest influencing factor on their development. It also often determines one’s future life path. Doing well in school means social recognition, a solid job, and steady income. However, the opposite can be true as well. Students are often told that they have to do well, that their lives will be worse off if they fail to live up to the standards that are expected of them. This pressure can have detrimental effects.

Socially, students can feel like there is pressure to “fit in.” Often times, what is expected from their social group can be at odds with what is expected by their immediate family, leading to tension. Academically, there is a pressure to be able to get good grades. In a competitive environment, this might be out of the students’ hands or take more time dedication than they are able to give. This can lead to stress and anxiety. Physically, the students might not feel they meet the “ideal” body image, especially if they are in athletics. This can lead to self-esteem concerns or disordered eating.

How Can Counselling Help with School Pressure?

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It should go without saying that counselling will not magically change the situation of the student seeking help. However, counselling can change one’s perspective on the situation. Counselling starts with a listening ear, with an honest desire to hear the student’s problem without judgement. Problems that once seemed too big to handle don’t seem as bad when someone is there fighting with you. When both the counsellor and counselling participant feel like they know the situation, then they work together to create a practical plan. This can be ways to think about a test, or a strategy for talking to someone who they are in conflict with. No matter how it looks, this plan will be specifically tailored to you and your situation.