Prom is considered one of the biggest high school experiences, and as the months tick down to weeks, “prom prep” can become one of the top contributors to the already stressful lives teenagers live. The prep can start months in advance, and as the date gets closer, anxiety can really build.
Planning out dates and groups can be an anxiety inducing task for teenagers to take on. According to a Harbinger survey of 135 students only 7% of the students who went or are going to prom have felt no prom-related stress in the past few weeks, leaving 93% who have felt at least some stress leading up to prom.
For junior Ella Soliz, anxiety has been slowly building when finding a date, “For a lot of people I know it’s hard finding a date that can go hand in hand with a group. Coordinating plans and dates adds to a lot of girls’ stress.”
Though typically girls value prom more than boys, junior Alfonso Jacobo is dealing with the prominent stress too.
“Prom stresses me out because it is challenging to find a group I like and at the same time ask someone to be my date,” said Jacobo.
With all the details to coordinate, from venues to transportation, among all of the preparations, one of the most significant stressors for many girls is finding the perfect dress. It’s not just about style, it’s about finding something that makes you feel confident and beautiful on a night that is meant to be more than memorable while also sticking to a budget.
According to a study, people typically spend anywhere from $100 to $700 or more on a prom dress, with the average cost often falling between $300 and $600, depending on factors like brand, style, and material.
Junior Sarah Klosterman is starting to witness all of her friends fall in love with their perfect dress, but Klosterman still hasn’t found hers while shopping in person.
“Finding a dress in a small town can be hard because we don’t have stores to try them on in,” said Klosterman.
Klostermans not alone, senior Cecilia Gentilini is also on the quest to find her perfect prom dress.
“I want to find the perfect dress, but there are so many options and I don’t want to regret my choice,” said Gentilini
This time of year can be incredibly stressful for teenagers with graduation looming and the pressure of ACT weighing heavily on their minds. All of this prom planning adds another layer of anxiety as students scramble to plan their outfits and coordinate with their friends.
Prom is meant to be a celebration, so finding ways to manage the stress will help ensure it’s night to remember.
