For many teens, school isn’t just about learning—it’s a source of relentless pressure. High GPAs, AP classes, extracurriculars, college apps, social media comparisons… It’s no wonder academic burnout is becoming one of the most common mental health challenges among adolescents.

Burnout vs. Laziness
It’s important for parents to recognize that burnout doesn’t look like stress—it often looks like apathy. A teen who once cared deeply about school might suddenly stop turning in assignments. They may sleep more, isolate from friends, or say things like “it doesn’t matter anymore.” This shift isn’t laziness—it’s emotional exhaustion.

The Perfectionism Trap
Perfectionism often drives teen burnout. Many teens feel their worth is tied to achievement. According to the Journal of Adolescence, perfectionism in teens is strongly associated with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Even high-achieving students can feel like constant failures if they’re always chasing an impossible standard.

Signs of Academic Anxiety
Watch for physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, or panic attacks before school. Irritability, procrastination, or an obsession with grades are also red flags. These may point to an underlying anxiety disorder—especially if the behavior persists even during school breaks.

What Parents Can Do
Start by validating your teen’s experience. Avoid saying “Just try harder” or “You have it easy.” Instead, ask open questions: What feels overwhelming right now? or What part of school do you dread most? Offer support, not solutions. In more serious cases, involve a mental health professional who understands the academic and emotional stress teens face today.

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