Last week, while attending a College and Career Fair for high school students, the #1 question I got from the students I spoke with was….
How do I decide what I want to do after graduation?
With a long line of inquiries from parents, family, and friends, the uncertainty surrounding a high school student’s future plans can be profoundly unsettling. The weight of not having a clear answer can be overwhelming. Moreover, when those individuals and professionals who should provide guidance and support seem to fall short, the situation becomes even more distressing.
To be honest, navigating this journey is stressful even for adults. Therefore, it’s not difficult to empathize with the myriad of emotions teenagers experience during this pivotal period in their lives.
High school can be a challenging time, marked by academic pressure, peer expectations, and the looming uncertainty of life after graduation. High school students often experience stress when faced with an uncertain future after graduation and this stress can lead to depression.
Coming from a forever Social Worker, who worked in the school systems for almost 10 years, I can say that high school depression can distort one’s decision-making process by impairing cognitive functioning, fostering isolation, and promoting impulsive or risky behavior. Recognizing and addressing depression is essential to support students in making informed and positive life choices.
Addressing the stress and uncertainty high school students face regarding their future after graduation is of utmost importance. By understanding the causes, identifying signs, and implementing preventive measures, we can collectively support the mental well-being of our youth during this critical phase of their lives.
Let’s dedicate our time to actively listen to our students, providing guidance that steers them toward their rightful paths, instead of merely guarding the knowledge that can liberate their spirits.
Stay focused, Be intentional in everything you do, and Be encouraged along the way!
Love, Felecia
