Returning to school can be thrilling and stressful. For some children, it can be a source of anxiety. From the challenge of being away from parents to making new friends or having new teachers, this time can be disorienting. Anxiety often intensifies during periods of change or transition, such as starting middle school, high school or a new school altogether.
To ease the transition, parents and loved ones can serve an important role, providing support and reassurance without intensifying their child’s concerns. Consider these tips to reduce back-to-school anxiety:
- Manage your own stress. The start of the school year can be stressful for anyone involved in caring for a student, so it’s crucial to manage your own stress effectively. There are ways to manage your stress such as practicing mindful techniques, learning your triggers, modeling stress tolerance in front of the child and even explaining your anxiety to them.
- Listen and acknowledge concerns. When a child expresses their concerns, avoid dismissing them. Acknowledge their feelings and collaborate with them on ways to handle their worries. Validating a child’s emotions is crucial.
- Plan a trial run. Prior to the start of the school year, consider visiting the school. Practicing drop-off routines or spending time in the classroom can familiarize children with their new environment and reduce their anxiety.
- Get social. Arrange play dates with a few friends before school starts. Research suggests having familiar peers around during this transition can enhance academic and emotional adjustment.
If you notice anxiety symptoms persisting beyond the first month of school, it may be time to seek help. There are many effective treatment options for young people living with anxiety.
Oceans Behavioral Hospital’s dedicated care teams provide a range of mental health solutions tailored to pre-teens and adolescents including individual and group therapies, recovery services and skill-building groups to encourage long-term healing.
For more information, find an Oceans facility near you or fill out this confidential form to have a representative call you.