Overworked From Homework & Feeling Pressure From Mother

Published: February 06, 2018
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hi I am a 13 year old and super overworked because of school.Today I have a cold. I thought that I was able to finally sleep and watch tv for once because in my opinion a day Im sick and have to stay home from school should be a day of relaxation. My mom thinks its for getting the homework I got from school the same day which is usually like five hours of work and just doing that. I am overwelmed and think that I wont get any better with this stress because apparently if I get straight A's which is very hard for me my family can go to disney. My mom's thoughts is GET TO DISNEYLAND NO MATTER THE COST EVEN IF ITS MY DAUGHTER'S WELL BEING! I am tired, have a cold, and want to relax for once.
Signed: Overworked From Homework & Feeling Pressure From Mother

Dear Overworked From Homework & Feeling Pressure From Mother,

TeenHealthFX is sorry to hear you have been feeling stressed, and reminds you that there are resources available to you to help cope with these emotions.  

First, you stated that you are overworked in school. TeenHealthFX suggests:

  • Have a conversation with your teacher about the stress that your schoolwork has been causing. He/she can work with you to explain difficult concepts, discuss study strategies, and overall reduce the stress that schoolwork has been causing you.  
  • Find a study buddy. Identifying a classmate to work on schoolwork with can make homework and studying less stressful. This is a great way to both learn from and teach your peers.  

 

Further, TeenHealthFX can understand how your mother's expectation for you to achieve high grades in order to go on vacation is creating a negative impact on your emotional well-being. FX recommends having a private conversation with your mother, in which you describe how this expectation is causing you to feel stressed, rather than motivated. TeenHealth recommends approaching this conversation in a calm manner, and not blaming either party (your mother or yourself). You can also visit the "Raising Difficult Topics" section of TeensHealth's article, Talking to Your Parents or Other Adults, for additional tips on how to conduct this conversation. If you do not feel comfortable having this conversation with your mother directly, FX recommends reaching out to another trusted adult, such as a teacher, coach or school guidance counselor.  

FX places an emphasis on the importance of managing stress. The many responsibilities that teenagers have to balance, including schoolwork, extra curricular activities, and relationships with family and friends can be overwhelming. In order to prevent stress buildup, try the following:

  • Get enough sleep.
  • Eat healthy foods.
  • Balance responsibilities (schoolwork, time with friends, sleep, etc.)  

 

If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers or check with your school social worker or psychologist to get a list of referrals in your area. 

TeenHealthFX suggests the following resources for additional information:

 

Signed: TeenHealthFX

Ratings