Mental Health Matters

Tackling Back to School Anxiety Together

August often brings mixed emotions. Some are soaking up the last days of summer by going on trips, or spending time outside with family and friends. For some, however, thoughts of going back to school can lead to higher levels of anxiety than typical. There are several signs that parents/guardians can be on the lookout for that may signal that your student is struggling. These include (but are not limited to) changes in sleep patterns, avoiding school related activities, seeking extra reassurance, complaints of headaches and fatigue.

We've listed below a few examples of how you as a parent/guardian can help your student tackle their anxiety.

• Encourage your student to face their anxiety head on instead of avoiding it.
• Acknowledge the steps they take and let them know how proud of them you are.
• Do a few practice run-throughs of school routines. This helps them clear up possible confusion and prepares them for what to expect.
• Make sure they are getting enough sleep. Many students have a different sleep schedule in the summer vs. the school year. Adjusting your student's bedtime earlier by small increments in the weeks leading up to the start of school is a great way to help them with this switch.

Source: Back to School Anxiety

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