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The Weekly Update

February 2, 2026

The Weekly Update February 2, 2026

The Check-In: February - Connection & Self-Regard The Check-In: February - Connection & Self-Regard

Why Everyone Else’s Life Looks Better (Spoiler: It Doesn’t) 📱🚫

Welcome to February! ❤️ This month, we are focusing on how we relate to ourselves and others.

Let’s be honest: How much time did you spend scrolling this week? And how did you feel afterward? If the answer is "worse than before I started," keep reading. We are tackling the Comparison Trap.

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The Science: The "Highlight Reel" Effect 📊

Psychologists call it Social Comparison Theory. We naturally determine our own worth by comparing ourselves to others.
  • The Problem: On social media, you are comparing your behind-the-scenes (your messy room, bad hair day, and stress) with everyone else’s highlight reel (filters, perfect angles, and best moments).

  • The Data: Studies link heavy social media use (passive scrolling) with increased cortisol (stress) and lower self-esteem. Your brain thinks you are "losing" a competition that isn't even real.

Weekly Challenge: The "Unfollow" Spree 🗑️

Curate your feed like you curate your playlist.

The Challenge: Go through your following list. Find 3 accounts that make you feel:

  • Jealous

  • Not "enough" (not smart enough, rich enough, fit enough)

  • Annoyed

Unfollow or Mute them. You don't owe anyone your attention. Protect your headspace.


Resource Corner: Reality Check ✅

If social media is making you feel isolated, anxious, or depressed, take a break and talk to a real human being.

  • School Counselor: Grant Sparks (766-3410)/Christine Harrell (766-3407) - Come hang out in a filter-free zone.
  • Mental Health Support: Shannon Krenek, LCSW (766-3379) - Leave a note if Ms. Shannon is not in. She would love to meet you.
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support.
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988.

Something New from Your Counselors Something New from Your Counselors

School Counselor Newsletter

https://app.smore.com/n/fewa0

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What's Happening this Week?

Monday:

NO DAY


Tuesday:

Remote Day - be sure to be online in your class meeting site at the correct time

  • 1st - 9:00 - 10:00
  • 2nd - 10:00 - 11:00
  • Lunch - 11:00 - 12:00
  • 3rd - 12:00 - 1:00
  • 4th - 1:00 - 2:00

Basketball HOME Mtn Heritage

Wrestling Duals @ Mitchell Middle School - 1st & 2nd rounds


Wednesday:


Seusical Rehearsal/set/costume


Thursday:

Seusical Rehearsal/set/costume


Friday:

Seusical Rehearsal/set/costume

Basketball @ Madison


clip art from: https://www.northbergen.org/News/View/8691/registration-open-now-for-recreation-dept-wrestling-and-basketball-programs-for-kids

Susan Hawkins
susanhawkins@mhslive.net
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