The Weight of Expectations

Imagine you're in a room full of smart, talented, and perfectionist students. Would you
think you're one of them, or will you feel like an outcast who doesn't belong there? This is an
issue that students experience, and I would like to show you how we students feel. This is for the
students who have lost their voice. In trying to be heard, with my voice, I'll show everyone that
this problem needs to be solved.

Have you ever felt like you're constantly being compared to someone else, like you're
living in their shadow? It's a burden that many of us students carry, one that can weigh heavily on
our shoulders.

On my first day of the 2022-2023 school year, I walked into the classroom with
excitement, only to have it dulled by a single conversation with my teacher. Instead of getting to
know me, they immediately brought up my sisters and their achievements. It was as if my identity
was reduced to a comparison with theirs, and the pressure to live up to their standards was
overwhelming.

But why should I have to be a carbon copy of someone else to be valued? This experience
made me realize that we're often forced into molds that don't fit us, and pressured to meet the
expectations of others.

Living in a society that constantly pressures us to live up to its expectations, it is

Students face a lot of pressure from various people, including their parents, instructors,
friends, and societal expectations. The constant pressure to meet these expectations harms
student's mental health and well-being. According to studies, students are becoming more
anxious, depressed, and stressed. Societal pressure frequently restricts students' personal
development and prevents them from exploring a variety of interests and passions. Empowering
students to resist societal norms and embrace their uniqueness is essential to their well-being and
success. Raising awareness of the harmful effects of societal pressure is the first step toward
creating meaningful change.

Societal pressure comes from various people, each contributing to the burden felt by
students trying to meet their expectations.
 Parents often impose their ambitions upon their kids, expecting them to achieve certain
academic or career paths. Teachers can unintentionally create a competitive atmosphere in which
grades are prioritized over our personal development, as a result of their influence on educational
standards and norms. Peers, influenced by social media and cultural trends, may perpetuate
unrealistic standards of beauty, success, and popularity.

The overall effect of societal pressure from various sources can be overwhelming for
students, leading to increasing stress, anxiety, and feelings of inferiority. This pressure not only
affects students' mental health but also prevents their ability to explore their passions, pursue their
interests, and develop a strong sense of self-identity.

Studies have consistently shown a connection between academic pressure and mental health
issues among students, with high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression being common among
teenagers. The pressure to excel academically, coupled with the fear of failure and the dishonor
associated with seeking help, creates a toxic cycle that perpetuates feelings of isolation and
hopelessness.

Consider the case of a high-achieving student who experiences burnout and depression due
to the constant pressure to maintain top grades and extracurricular achievements. Despite
outward success, internally, the student struggles with feelings of worthlessness and inability,
unable to meet the unrealistic standards set by society.

The negative impact of societal pressure on students' mental health extends beyond their
academic performance, affecting their overall well-being and quality of life. Left unchecked, these
mental health issues can have long-term consequences, impacting students' relationships, career
aspirations, and overall sense of fulfillment.

Empowering students to resist societal norms and embrace their uniqueness is essential for
their well-being and success. By challenging oppressive norms and advocating for inclusivity and
diversity, students can create positive change in their communities and beyond.

In conclusion, students' mental health and well-being are negatively affected by the constant
pressure to live up to social norms, which hinders their potential and prevents them from growing
personally.

We can build a more just and compassionate society where everyone feels appreciated and
accepted for who they are by identifying the causes and effects of social pressure and giving
students the tools they need to challenge oppressive norms while encouraging diversity and
inclusivity.

By fostering diversity and inclusivity, we can cultivate a more just and compassionate
society where everyone is valued and accepted for their unique qualities.