Maintaining self-esteem During Back to School Season
With school steadily approaching, some may feel anxious awaiting its return. Remote teaching seems to be a concept of the past, and the inevitability of constant social interaction may be overwhelming as we return to full classrooms and busy hallways. Despite being an establishment that inspires people to achieve great success, schools can also encourage competition and comparison, exacerbating the many academic and social pressures placed upon today's youth (1).
It is no surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic has heavily impacted everyone's lives. Unfortunately, children are not exempt from its effects, as they sustain long-term effects emerging from this time of unease and instability. A recent study revealed that sedentary life has increased over lockdown, and consequently, screen time has also sky-rocketed (2). As a result, children have become exposed to masses of information about the virus and how it has changed the world around us (2). Naturally, this incites a considerable amount of fear and anxiety as they return to school and face their future with great unease and doubt (2). This negative mindset can be intensified in a school environment. A study by Feldlaufer and colleagues revealed that as children age through the school system, there is a decrease in cooperation and an increase in social comparison behaviour amongst students (3). Moreover, in adolescence, anxiety around peer approval increases significantly (4). People can begin to stress about their appearance, resulting in higher levels of body dissatisfaction and potentially putting them at risk for developing conditions such as eating disorders (5).
What can be done about it?
From a system-wide perspective, schools need to provide opportunities for their students to be autonomous (6). This is because fostering independence and responsibility in children and encouraging open communication can raise one's self-esteem (6). However, on an individual level, people must explore appropriate coping mechanisms to manage the worry and stress of returning to school, especially in the context of the pandemic.
One way to maintain self-esteem would be to join a team or a club of an activity you genuinely enjoy. This environment would induce a sense of belonging, which can help improve one's self-esteem (7).
Additionally, confiding in school personnel is another way to feel supported throughout the school year (8). Therefore, talking to your favourite teacher or counsellor about your anxieties, goals, and future can help you feel reassured as you manoeuvre through a world changed by the pandemic (8).
Other ways to maintain good self-esteem would be to explore an outlet that does not focus on academia. Some examples would be reading, watching films, or starting a creative project such as painting or crocheting.
Lastly, given how many people are constantly on their phones, we do not just compare ourselves and our achievements to those in direct proximity to us, but we also receive information about people in the public sphere and their accomplishments. This can be a breeding ground for insecurity, especially if one frequently compares themselves to others. Therefore, a good practice to maintain positive self-esteem would be to unfollow people on social media that you often compare yourself to. Instead, follow people with diverse backgrounds and body types who you are inspired by, and aim to maintain this practice in everyday life to build self-esteem and refocus your energy on your intentions.
Our Advice
1. Join a club, sports team, or a group activity that you are interested in.
2. Talk to your teachers about the upcoming school year and how they can help support you.
3. Explore a creative outlet in your free time.
4. Follow people on social media that encourage diversity and inspire you.
Written By: Ayse Hincal