In a world where academic excellence is often celebrated, it’s alarming to learn that high-achieving children are now classified as ‘at risk’ for mental health disorders. This revelation comes from a recent study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, which highlights the emotional struggles faced by students in competitive academic environments.
As a parent in a community that values high achievement, I’ve noticed that my children excel academically with relative ease. However, the constant push for exceptional grades, involvement in countless extracurricular activities, and the pressure to build an impressive college application can be overwhelming. Despite my efforts to instill the notion that learning and effort matter more than perfect grades, my sons still feel the weight of expectations.
For instance, one of my sons recently broke down over a B+ he received on a project. No matter how much I reassured him that his hard work was what truly counted, he remained unconvinced. In an attempt to comfort him, I shared my own experiences of dealing with disappointing grades and emphasized that many successful individuals didn’t attend elite colleges or even college at all. It’s all about discovering one’s strengths and believing in oneself. Yet, as I offered these platitudes, I couldn’t help but wonder how we arrived at this point where even well-performing students face such intense pressure. This issue is widespread, affecting kids across all academic levels.
A report from The Washington Post elaborates on the findings of the National Academies, which now includes students from high-achieving schools among those considered at risk. Traditionally, at-risk youth were identified as those from impoverished backgrounds or those in foster care; however, the study reveals that mental health problems can also arise in more affluent settings. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation previously noted that the relentless pressure to excel contributes significantly to mental health issues among these students.
Suniya Luthar, a psychology professor at Arizona State University, has extensively researched this topic. She finds that students in high-achieving schools often endure higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. Luthar points out that the sources of this pressure are pervasive, stemming from teachers, peers, coaches, and parents alike. While schools have a role in ensuring a balanced approach to education, parents hold substantial influence over their children’s mental well-being.
Interestingly, a study published in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence revealed that children whose parents prioritize character development alongside academic achievements tend to fare better. Those who believe their parents value qualities like kindness over grades exhibit improved mental health and school performance. This research underscores the importance of emphasizing personal values over mere accomplishments.
As a parent, I take solace in the fact that I encourage my children to prioritize their character and kindness over their grades, even if they roll their eyes at my reminders. While the road ahead may be challenging—especially with high school and college admissions looming—I remain hopeful that focusing on their values will lead to a healthier mindset in the long run.
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In summary, while high-achieving students may seem privileged, they face significant mental health challenges due to societal pressures. By fostering a culture of valuing character traits alongside academic success, parents can help mitigate these pressures and support their children’s overall well-being.
Keyphrase: High-achieving kids mental health
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