A Teen's Guide to survive high school.

Presented by: Manhoor Fatima

High school is considered one of the most hectic and difficult phases in one’s life bundled with expectations, pressure and growth. Some students know what they are doing, others pretend to know while some are completely clueless. And these clueless ones often face the most difficulties.

So how do teens survive while feeling judged, misunderstood, odd and vulnerable?

Teens are most vulnerable at this stage, with the shift in their perspective, body and mindset. And frankly, this period is awful for many students. Bullying is a common problem among highschoolers given the name of ‘friendship’ ‘light teasing’ or roasting. It is said 1 in every 5 students face bullying which can disturb their mental, physical and emotional growth.Moreover, this leads to a far bigger consequence: insecurity. 

Insecurities are often found among highschoolers due to lack of confidence, rude friends or negative comments. We all have seen that one trio where two friends are constantly verbally targeting the third one, in the name of  ‘fun roasting’. But is it just that, we all laugh at those comments passed, however from the perspective of that third friend, the comments  are like wounds that lingers. Comments are often seen as harmless. The reaction? ‘Too sensitive.’ But in reality, these words can cause deep, lasting pain. These comments can linger as scars or unhealed wounds for a lifetime, it can ruin lives by lowering the confidence of the individual which can lead him to make wrong decisions in career pathways.

The best solution to this is avoidance. Avoid the students who make you feel small and insecure.That friendship is not always worth it. In the beginning, it might be hard to leave because of the fear of being left out and alone. But it's the best solution, you will find more friends in future who are not toxic, narcissist or manipulative.  Talk to a trusted adult, like a teacher, a senior, a parent that can provide you with support and confront the bullies. 

Every school has a beauty standard of their own and those who fit in are suddenly the most popular kids with a lot of friends and those who do not are outcast and lonely. Acne is the biggest insecurity after weight. In many situations students are bullied because of them however these are just beauty marks and signs of your youth, nothing to be ashamed of. You should talk to a trusted adult and get back your confidence. 

Another problem is the new TikTok personality of people pleasing; suddenly, people without this personality trait are considered rude and arrogant, potentially falling under the bully's radar. However, the study suggests that people pleasing is a sign of ‘ lack of confidence’ and those who say ‘no’ are now considered rude and arrogant. And in high school, your reputation sticks, so the best solution is ‘not changing yourself to fit in someone else's fantasy’. No is a powerful word, can save life, can change life, and can brighten your life. No is a powerful word, and you should learn to use it. 

While the shift from middle school to high school happens, every student adjusts to their new height, pimples, weight, and new bodies. The sensitivity rises during this phase, thus leading to complex, insecurity and a change in behaviour. According to the Mayo Clinic, these changes can cause increased emotional sensitivity and vulnerability to peer influence.

Around 50-70% of teens report body dissatisfaction during this phase. So, teens, you have a whole life ahead and a future that won’t see your excuses. So avoid social media and focus on your studies. If you are struggling, you are not alone. You will blossom when the time is right.