Is it okay to cry at school?
I’m a 17-year-old non-binary student, and I’ve found myself crying in my first-period class four times this week—on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and today. It all started when I saw a flyer about mental health resources, which really got to me. I’ve also been struggling with noise in the classroom. My teacher has tried to help by discussing it with me one-on-one, but we haven’t found a solution that works. Just yesterday, she caught me in a moment of panic, frantically scribbling, which made me feel really embarrassed. Although I brought my headphones to class, I still felt pretty bad, even if I didn’t cry as much.
This week has been tough, and I’ve been dealing with self-harm more frequently, which has definitely affected my mood.
What should I do?
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re going through such a tough time. Yes, it’s absolutely okay to cry in school. Emotions can be overwhelming, especially when you’re facing challenges like you are. It’s important to acknowledge how you’re feeling and to reach out for support.
Here are some steps you might consider:
Talk to Someone: Find a trusted adult, whether it’s a teacher, school counselor, or another staff member, and let them know what you’re experiencing. They can help you navigate the resources available and provide emotional support.
Utilize Mental Health Resources: Since the flyer that triggered your emotions mentioned mental health resources, take advantage of them. This could include counseling services or support groups at your school.
Create a Safe Space: If you find certain environments overwhelming, it might help to identify a quiet place where you can take breaks when you need them.
Manage Triggers: If noise is a significant issue, discuss the possibility of using noise-canceling headphones or finding a quieter space for your studies if that’s an option.
Develop Coping Strategies: Journaling, deep breathing exercises, or grounding techniques can help manage acute emotional distress. You might also find it helpful to express your feelings in a less intense way, like doodling or using fidget tools.
Seek Immediate Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed to the point of self-harm, it’s crucial to seek immediate help. Reach out to a teacher or school counselor who can provide urgent support or connect you with professionals who can help.
Remember, it’s brave of you to express what you’re feeling. You’re not alone in this, and there are people who want to support you. Take care of yourself and prioritize your well-being.