Dear Cassie,

I have a problem. Lately, I’ve been so behind on school because I’ve been working so late, and staying up until three a.m. doing school work only to wake up at 6:45 a.m. to do it all again. My grades are declining and I’m still trying my hardest to focus, despite how tired I am. I feel like I’ve tried everything to fix it, but I just don’t know how I can solve this problem, please help!

        From,
        An Extremely Stressed Teen

Dear Stressed Teen,

I hear you.  Juggling school and a job can sometimes be a little overwhelming, and I’m sure the last thing you want to do is quit. Feeling stressed or overwhelmed sucks. We’ve been there. Taking on too many things at once never works out for anybody, so, take a day and dedicate it to your school work. I suggest writing out a list of everything that needs to be done and taking it on one at a time. School work gets a little messy, and I’ve found that lists help with getting back on track. If work comes in the way of that, call in so you can catch up a little, because education should always come first and most employers understand that.

Once you’re caught up and have things situated, take on you regular hours again. If anything, you should be able to sit down and have a talk with your manager, and ask them about different hours and express how you’re feeling with your current ones. If that doesn’t work try talking to your coworkers about exchanging shifts. Nine times out of ten someone will swap, and hey, if that too doesn’t work, and you absolutely can not quit, You could even take a small break from work to focus by applying for a leave of absence. Most jobs supply the proper form with a certain time allottance.

Less time at work can also give you a few extra hours for school work while also enabling you to go to sleep earlier. Sleep is vital for the human body, and your brain requires 8 hours of sleep each night to function properly. Lack of sleep can cause stress, anxiety, lack of focus, and drowsiness throughout the day. Without the proper sleep, you are unable to retain information as well and this causes you to forget the important things you are taught in class.

Make sure to get the proper rest each night, take small breaks in between assignments, and drink plenty of water. This will keep you healthy, focused, and happy, which in turn will help your grades skyrocket.

I hope this helps- thanks for writing!

– Cassie