As schools break-up for the long summer break, ELSIE GOWERS looks at a growing and troubling issue for some teenagers
The lazy, hazy days of summer are almost with us, as schools across the country break up for their long break, much needed and welcomed by most teachers and pupils.
But for some teenagers, this long period of time away from the structure of the school week, their lessons and many of their friends, can be a period of anxiety, loneliness and even isolation.
It is well established that parents and carers can often feel stressed during the school summer holidays as they seek activities to keep their off-spring busy while they might be at work, but what is less well-known that this period can have negative effects on pupils, too.
According to research conducted by the NHS, many young people are reliant on the structures of school. For teenagers and pre-teens, the summer holidays can be a particularly difficult time as they are often home alone.
Boredom, or a feeling of aimlessness, when suddenly left outside the routine of school, brings a notable decrease in socialisation for many pupils, the NHS says. The transition from being surrounded by others for hours every day to spending a large amount of time alone can be very difficult, especially for those who do not have a strong network outside school.
This can ultimately lead to loneliness and even social anxiety, according to the NHS.
Waking up every morning and being fully aware of how the day will be spent is underestimated in its benefits to mental health, providing a sense of security and structure which reduces stress significantly.
Additionally, family dynamics can become very strained during the holidays, leading to some teens becoming irritable and feeling anxious for much of the time in which they spend at home.
Social media plays a part, too.
Lonely, isolated youngsters with nothing better to do than spend hours on their smartphones or other devices are vulnerable to having their mood affected negatively by comparisons to others on social media, thinking that they are missing out as they see images and videos of their peers having fun on holiday. Unrealistic expectations are often cause for disappointment and low self-esteem.
The looming dread of next term’s studies or exams can also weigh heavily, overshadowing the opportunities of the break, making it difficult for some to relax and enjoy themselves.
Pupils that are experiencing stress or anxiety during the holidays may be unsure about how to deal with this because they do not have access to support services that their school may provide. Many rely on teachers or friend support groups that simply do not exist during the holidays.
So those lazy, hazy days of summer might not be as enjoyable as hoped for by many students. People feeling low over the holidays are encouraged to talk – to their parents, or to their GP.
- Elsie Gowers is an A-level pupil undertaking work experience at Inside Croydon
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