Every May, Mental Health Awareness Month highlights the importance of mental well-being. While awareness has grown in recent years, many people still face misunderstanding and limited access to support. The month is not only about recognizing mental health challenges but also about encouraging meaningful conversations and creating support networks.
Mental health affects how people think, feel and act. It plays a major role in how individuals handle stress, build relationships and make decisions. For high school students, mental health is especially important. Academic pressure, social norms and uncertainty about the future can quickly become overwhelming, especially during the spring when Advanced Placement exams take place.
During exam season, sleep schedules may suffer, and students may neglect their well-being in order to keep up with academic demands. This makes it even more important to recognize the connection between academic stress and mental health.
“I remember studying up to midnight on many nights before my AP tests in my sophomore year,” junior Hector Jessen said. “I was very stressed and was worried about what would happen if I did [badly].”
One of the biggest obstacles to improving mental health is that struggles are often invisible. A person may appear fine on the outside while dealing with anxiety, stress or emotional exhaustion internally. Because of this, many students choose not to speak up, often fearing judgment or believing others are handling things better. Mental Health Awareness Month works to break this silence by promoting open discussions and reinforcing that asking for help is a sign of strength rather than weakness.
“One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding mental health is the negative stigma often associated with a diagnosis,” UHS Mental Health Specialist Michelle Yoo said. “A lot of people feel like there is something wrong with them because of their disorders, even though that is often not the case.”
Education is another key factor in improving mental health outcomes. When students understand stress and its effects, they are better equipped to manage it. Schools and teachers can support students during high-pressure times, such as AP exams, by encouraging balance, providing resources and reminding students that one test does not determine their worth or future.
“This year, my Spanish teacher supported us by limiting homework during AP tests,” Jessen said. “She also encouraged us [not to] sacrifice our health and study endlessly, and has made the testing experience much easier to balance with school structure.”
In addition to awareness, small daily habits can support better mental health. Getting enough sleep, staying physically active and maintaining supportive relationships can help reduce stress and improve mood. Taking breaks while studying and setting realistic goals can also make a noticeable difference during demanding times like AP testing season.
“Taking breaks, getting enough sleep and making sure to exercise regularly are very important to stay mentally healthy,” Yoo said. “Especially during exam season, it is important [not to] cram with studying before exams.”
Mental Health Awareness Month ultimately encourages a shift in perspective. It emphasizes that mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, especially during stressful periods like exams. By continuing these conversations beyond May, students and communities can move toward a healthier, more balanced approach to success.
