May is Mental Health Awareness Month and brings attention to the increasingly high levels of stress. At NDB, students are experiencing stress from the pressures of AP exams, final exams and, for seniors, post-NDB plans.

Throughout the month, it is important to take an extra part of one’s day to practice self-care and understand the need for relaxation during a busy schedule. Without it, mental illnesses can arise from an abnormal decrease or increase in appetite, low motivation and elongated periods of sadness. It is crucial to look for these signs in one’s self and their inner circle.

At NDB, support is available on campus with a team of counselors in Room 126. Every student has a dedicated counselor with whom they can schedule meetings to discuss classes, get advice and learn to deal with stress. Luckily, all students can talk to any counselor when they need immediate help.

“I think I’ve used a lot of resources … to help me push through difficult times. I talk to [my counselor] often and my friends, [too],” said freshman Sydney Frischer. “But, for the majority of the time, I [talk with] my favorite teachers at lunch, after school or before school … to just talk about how I’ve been feeling.”

Off-campus, taking care of one’s mental health can look different for everyone, and it is an essential part of one’s daily routine to take time during such a hectic schedule throughout the school year. People’s forms of self-care include doing skin care, exercising, reading, watching television and participating in other activities to boost their moods.

During the month of May, Mental Health Awareness Month, educating oneself on improving mental health is especially important. Support is available for anyone struggling with their mental health, on or away from campus.