Being single is something a lot of high school students deal with, even if it doesn’t always feel like it. At Belleville High School, it can seem like everyone is in a relationship, especially when social media constantly shows couples posting pictures and videos. But in reality, being single is actually way more common than it looks — and it can even be healthier for teenagers.
According to a report from the Pew Research Center, about 35% of teenagers have some kind of dating experience, which means most teens are not in serious relationships. This shows that what people see online is not always accurate. Social media tends to highlight relationships, making them seem more common than they really are.
Another reason being single is not a bad thing is because it gives students time to focus on themselves. Research from the American Psychological Association suggests that developing independence and self-identity during adolescence is important for long-term mental health. Teens who rely too much on relationships for validation can struggle more with self-esteem.
“I used to think I needed to be in a relationship to feel happy,” said Belleville senior Teonna Davis. “But now I realize I’m more confident when I focus on myself and my goals.”
Being single isn’t always easy, especially when it feels like everyone around you is paired up. But it doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. In fact, it can be one of the best times to figure out who you are, what you want, and what actually makes you happy, without having to depend on anyone else.
