‘Ask Mogy’ Column

My friends aren’t including me, what should I do?

Dear excluded, sad, and angsty teenager, Managing middle and high school can get pretty tough at times, especially socially. It can be immensely difficult to experience friend drama, which can be anxiety-inducing and lonely. Trust me when I say that you are not alone in going through this, mostly everyone in middle and high school has felt excluded at one point or another. In this situation, it is important to take a step back from the situation and think about who you truly want to surround yourself with. Make sure that the people you spend time with are making you feel good about yourself, and are lifting you up instead of bringing you down. Instead of looking at the situation as a bad thing, let’s look at it from a growth mindset: What an amazing opportunity you have to expand your horizons and feel uplifted by new people! Take this chance to branch out, get to know new people in the community, and make connections across grades! Additionally, taking some time for self-care, and learning to look inward and be comfortable in your own company is such a powerful tool, use it! As my good friend once said, “I don’t believe everything happens for a reason, but I do believe you can find reason out of everything that happens.” 

XOXO, 

Mogy

What should I do if I’m struggling in a class?

Dear behind on assignments, might-fail-soon student, Staying on top of grades can be challenging, especially as the year goes on; procrastination sets in, and you begin to feel burnt out. While it is difficult to stay engaged, it is important to do your very best to academically succeed, for your own knowledge, and for your future self! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get out of your slump and back on track. Do something to help you feel in control of your environment. I usually like to do my laundry, make my bed, or take an “everything shower.”

Organize the assignments you need to turn in so you know what to prioritize. Give yourself some grace, working slowly but surely truly works. You can’t get everything done at once! Slow and steady wins the race.

Meet with your teachers! Lucky for you, you have a support system of educators here for you to fall back on, especially in times of need. In my time at DJDS, I have never encountered a teacher who wasn’t accommodating and understanding of my academic needs, seize the opportunity! 

Remember to take time for yourself. Making sure to stay on top of your work also means properly nurturing your mind and body to be able to succeed! I usually like to take time to go to the gym, walk my dog, light a candle, or journal to give myself a break. As Billy Joel once said, “Slow down, you’re doing fine, you can’t be everything you wanna be before your time.” You’re doing great, remember that. 

XOXO, 

Mogy 

I’m having a hard time mentally, what will help me?

Dear depressed, anxiety-ridden friend, Having trouble with your mental health is not an easy task, especially at such a young age. First off, know that you are not alone. I’ll bet almost everyone you pass by in the hall has encountered difficulty with their mental stability throughout their time as a teenager. Oftentimes when feeling low, we tend to turn toward isolative tendencies and feelings of loneliness instead of confronting the issue at hand. Know that you are not the only person experiencing this and that you have a community that has your back. Know that you have resources you can reach out to for help! Talking to a friend, a trusted teacher, a parent, or a counselor may help you organize your thoughts and emotions, and to gain some insight on how to feel better. Do something in the form of self-care, whether that be going on a walk, doing a facemask, or taking a night off from homework, anything that will help you feel less stressed.  As Noah Kahan once said, “don’t let this darkness fool you, all lights turned off, can be turned on.” 

XOXO, 

Mogy