Sitting in class, trying your best to keep your attention on the teacher but your mind keeps racing to you boyfriend/girlfriend and your relationship. Relatable? This can be a constant struggle for those in relationships throughout high school, although when perfectly balanced students are found to continue to positively progress individually.

In general love is a strong emotion that alters people’s lives in many ways, and specifically high school students who are managing a multitude of personal agendas; this can be a challenging or exhilarating journey.

“57% of teenagers between 12 and 17 years old are regularly dating, and a third of them have a steady partner,” stated www.onlinedivorce.com

With more than half of the average teenager being a part of a time consuming relationship, it is necessary to acknowledge the affects it has on schooling.

“Both Neemann et al. (1995) and Halpern et al. (2000) reported negative associations between academic achievement and romantic relationships in early adolescence,” said Evaluating Impacts of Early Adolescent Romance by Chung Pham, Tracy Keenan, and Bing Han.

This demonstrates the struggle of maintaining an equal and positive balance between academics and relationships. Students already manage extra curricular activities and grades. Adding a person with needs and personal requirements constitutes an enormous weight.

“Research suggests that romantic relationships can lead to distraction, stress, and low academic performance among adolescents,” stated typeset.io.

Mentally, relationships can take a toll on a student’s stability so it is vital to prioritize self care to prevent regression.

“Relationships, especially with partners/spouses, increase the risk of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts,” stated mental health.org.

This is due to the responsibilities the student must obtain or traumas a partner may carry with them into the relationship.

Yet, despite these possible negative results, relationships can be very uplifting and beneficial to an individual. When balanced properly, relationships can increase productivity and encourage personal achievements.

“The goal in a healthy relationship is to find the balance between connection as a couple, while still maintaining an identity as a separate person. Celebrated individuality can foster happiness, cultivate interest and exploration, and increase connection and intimacy with your partner,” stated www.marriage.com.

Further, being in relationships throughout high school allows opportunities for new experiences and life lessons that enable students to grow as individuals. It can provide essential building blocks to establishing the person they are and provide a better understanding of their priorities.

“They provide us with a sense of connection, and a space where we can grow and develop in meaningful ways. They allow us to be seen, to be heard, and to realize ourselves,” stated oneuponedwin.org.