As the school year races toward its end, the pressure on teenagers reaches a fever pitch. From sports commitments to academic demands, the calendar fills up quickly, leaving teens feeling overwhelmed and exhausted.
According to a recent survey, more than two-thirds of parents (70%) believe their children are experiencing heightened levels of burnout compared to themselves. The survey, which involved 2,000 parents of school-aged children, revealed that 66% of parents noted their child returning home from school with a “low mental battery,” while half of them observed signs indicating stress and burnout in their children. [New York Post (nypost)]
As a competitive girls’ volleyball coach and a life coach for teens, I’ve witnessed firsthand the toll that burnout can take on young athletes and students alike.
In this blog, we’ll explore what teen burnout looks like, its potential causes, and most importantly, how parents and coaches can support teens in navigating this challenging period.
Teen burnout can manifest in various ways, from physical exhaustion to emotional distress. Athletes may experience sickness and injury due to overexertion, while students may feel overwhelmed by the expectations placed on them by parents, teachers, and coaches. As a coach and mentor, it’s essential to recognize the signs of burnout and address them proactively.
Combatting Teen Burnout: Tips for Parents and Coaches
- Teach Stress Management: Introducing stress management tools early can be invaluable.
- Promote Self-Care Practices: Encourage your teen to adopt self-care practices that resonate with them. Whether it’s journaling, taking a bath, spending time in nature, or simply watching a funny movie, carving out time for self-care is essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-being.
- Open Dialogue About Mental Health: Establish regular check-ins with your teen to discuss their mental health openly. Let them know that it’s okay to take breaks, even if that means missing a practice so they can prioritize their well-being. Additionally, consider making them aware of therapy or coaching services as a confidential outlet for support.
- Ensure Proper Rest (this is a big one in my home): Highlight the importance of adequate sleep and rest for teens’ physical and mental health. Encourage them to establish healthy sleep habits and prioritize restful activities before bedtime.Teenagers typically need 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night for optimal health and well-being.
- Focus on Diet: Educate teens about the impact of nutrition on their energy levels and overall well-being. Encourage them to prioritize a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, while minimizing the consumption of processed foods and sugary snacks. Remember, teens model what they see being done by their parents.
As the demands of school, sports, and social life intensify, it’s more important than ever for parents and coaches to support teens in managing burnout. By recognizing the signs, promoting stress management techniques, encouraging self-care practices, and fostering open dialogue about mental health, we can empower teens to navigate this challenging period with resilience and strength.