The Anxious Generation: Helping Students Cope with Modern Stress

College students are experiencing all-time high rates of depression, anxiety and suicidality, according to the latest Healthy Minds survey. In the annual survey, which received responses from 96,000 U.S. students, 44% reported symptoms of depression. How did we get to this point?

Teaching kids how to navigate change effectively is the most valuable lesson we can offer in school. Build resilience and self-confidence early.

1. Develop a Growth Mindset: Encourage students to view challenges as opportunities for personal development.

2. Promote Open Communication: Instill the value of expressing thoughts and emotions. Encourage them to discuss concerns and anxieties related to change.

3. Cultivate a Love for Learning: Stress the importance of continuous learning as a means to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills necessary for adapting to new situations.

4. Set Realistic Expectations: Help students understand that change isn't always smooth, and setbacks are a normal part of the process. Realistic expectations can reduce frustration.

5. Teach Problem-Solving: Equip kids with problem-solving skills, demonstrating how to break down complex challenges into manageable steps.

6. Encourage Flexibility: Highlight the significance of flexibility, as life rarely unfolds as planned, and adaptability is a valuable asset.

7. Emphasize the Support Network: Inspire them to seek support from friends, family, or mentors during times of significant change, as a reliable support system can ease the adaptation process.

8. Prioritize Self-Care: Stress the importance of self-care for maintaining physical and mental well-being during transitions.

9. Visualize Positive Outcomes: Assist them in visualizing a successful result after adapting to change, providing a motivating goal to work towards.

10. Celebrate Achievements: Recognize and celebrate their accomplishments in navigating change, regardless of their size, to boost their confidence and self-esteem.

11. Lead by Example: Demonstrate how you personally adapt to change in your own life, as children often learn best through observation.

Remember, adapting to change is an ongoing journey that requires patience and perseverance.

This will take time and patience but we can change the statistics.