What it can feel like
Dreading school, feeling like nothing you do is enough for grades or college, losing interest in activities you used to love, and running on stress. Everything feels like a competition you are losing.
Why it happens
Overpacked schedules, pressure to build the "perfect" application, and comparing yourself to everyone online push you past your limits. You are being asked to perform constantly, with little downtime.
What can help
It is okay to drop one thing. Talk to a counselor about a realistic load and how to reset expectations. Your worth is not your GPA or your resume. Rest and fun are part of a healthy life, not rewards you have to earn.