As a high school student, it’s normal to be overwhelmed by the demands of academic work, extracurricular activities, and social obligations. With so much going on, it can be easy to neglect your own needs and wellbeing. But self-care is essential for maintaining good physical, emotional, and mental health – so how can you prioritise it when life is already so full? Let’s look at the importance of self-care and see three examples of self-care practices you can incorporate into your daily routine.
What is self-care?
Self-care involves taking intentional actions to nurture your physical, emotional, and mental health. It can take many forms, such as exercising, getting enough sleep, eating well, practising mindfulness, and seeking support from others.
Why is self-care is important?
Self-care is crucial for all of us, but particularly for high school students for several reasons:
Reduce stress and anxiety
High school can be a stressful time, with academic pressure, social challenges, and uncertainty about the future. Practising self-care can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, allowing you to feel more relaxed and focused.
Boost academic performance
When you feel good, you’re better equipped to handle the demands of schoolwork. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep can all improve cognitive function and memory retention, leading to better academic performance.
Improve overall wellbeing
Self-care can help you feel happier, more confident, and more fulfilled. When you prioritise your own needs and take care of yourself, you’ll be better equipped to handle life’s challenges and pursue your goals.
Three examples of self-care for high school students
Here are three examples of things you can do to practise self-care in your everyday life.
Exercise
Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve both physical and mental health. You don’t have to be an elite athlete or run a marathon – even simple activities like walking, jogging, or yoga can help you feel more energised, reduce stress levels, and improve your mood.
Mindfulness
Practising mindfulness involves being present in the moment and non-judgmentally observing your thoughts and feelings. This can be done through meditation, deep breathing, or simply taking a few minutes to tune out distractions and focus on the present. Mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and increase overall wellbeing.
Social support
Maintaining social connections is essential for our wellbeing. Make time for friends and family, join a club or organisation that aligns with your interests, or seek support from a trusted adult or mental health professional when you need it. Having a strong support network can help you feel more confident and resilient in the face of challenges.
Be kind to yourself
Remember, there’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to practise self-care. Forcing yourself to do something you don’t enjoy will only have the opposite effect – so try out different techniques until you find what works best for you.
You can find more wellbeing tips and advice on our website here.