As midterms approach, students at Kingswood Oxford and in high schools all across the US are feeling the weight of exams, assignments, and the pressure to perform. This time of year can be especially challenging for students balancing academic responsibilities with the demands of daily life, extracurriculars, and social commitments. While the pressure to succeed academically is a constant, it often intensifies during midterms, triggering feelings of anxiety, stress, and even burnout.
But amid the high-stakes environment, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of mental health, especially during such a stressful period. I sat down with sophomore Sierra Wells, Upper School Mental Health Counselor, Felicia Velez, and Head of the Upper School Lisa Loeb to gain insight into how students can navigate this challenging time with their well-being intact.
Sierra described her feelings as she is approaching midterms. “Midterms can be a really stressful time for many students,” she said, “and it’s common to feel a mix of anxiety and pressure. It’s important to acknowledge your feelings and find ways to manage them. The overwhelming workload, upcoming exams, and pressure to do well can make it difficult to keep up with everything.” However, the pressure isn’t only academic.
Ms. Velez noted that students often experience feelings of anxiety or depression during this time of year, and, combined with additional stressors such as academic or personal struggles, might have difficulty coping. For many students, managing midterm stress requires a balance of organization and self-care. “I create a study schedule, take breaks, and practice relaxation techniques,” said Sierra. “Staying organized and prioritizing tasks really helps.” She also finds solace in physical activity, whether it’s playing field hockey or going to the gym, stating that exercise helps clear her mind.
Ms. Velez echoed the importance of self-care, offering practical advice. “Students should be mindful of their basic needs,” said Ms. Velez. “Eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated. It’s easy to neglect those things when you’re overwhelmed, but they’re essential to managing stress.”
Mrs. Loeb agreed, and emphasized the value of a supportive school environment. “We aim to foster a culture where students feel comfortable seeking help,” she said. “We have small class sizes, approachable advisors, and teachers who can offer support and flexibility during this time.”
While midterms bring stress, students at KO have several resources available to help them manage their mental health. Mrs. Loeb highlighted the variety of support systems in place, such as co-curricular programs, the new Relaxation Room, and even therapy dogs that visit during exams. “It’s important for students to know that there’s more to school life than academics,” she said. “The mental health resources we offer, from counselors to stress-relief initiatives like The Zone, are there to help students de-stress and regain their balance.”
Students can also access counseling services through the school’s mental health specialist, Ms. Velez, or by reaching out to teachers and advisors. “If students are feeling overwhelmed, they should speak up,” Ms. Velez said. “Whether it’s through a counselor or simply talking to a teacher they trust, there’s no shame in asking for help.”
However, as many students know, social media can complicate the mental health landscape. “Social media can have both positive and negative impacts,” Sierra explained. “It can be a source of support and connection but also a source of stress and comparison, along with its ability to distract students from their work.”
Ms. Velez underscored the negative impact that social media can have on mental well-being. “It’s essential to balance the time spent online with in-person interactions,” she said. “Real-world connections and supportive friendships are key to maintaining a healthy mindset.”
During these times, peer support plays an important role in reducing stigma around mental health. “My friends are really supportive,” said Sierra, “and it’s important to try to lessen the stigma by encouraging honest discussions about mental health.”
So, what can be done to further support students during midterm season? “More mental health days could help,” Sierra suggested. “Eliminating things like homework or phone use for a day could give everyone a mental break.”
Ms. Velez also stressed the importance of creating a supportive environment. “Bringing more awareness to mental health, including through initiatives like Active Minds, can help normalize these discussions,” she said.
Ms. Loeb agreed. “At KO, we’re always learning how to improve and adapt to students’ needs,” she noted. “The feedback we get from students and parents helps shape our approach to mental health support.”
While midterms may never be entirely stress-free, a combination of healthy habits, supportive resources, and an open dialogue about mental health can help students navigate this demanding time with resilience and self-awareness.
