Navigating Back-to-School Stress with Resilience
The start of a new school year is often a mix of excitement and anxiety. While a new backpack and fresh notebooks can spark a sense of possibility, the transition back to a structured routine can be challenging for everyone involved.
At Bloom Behavioral Health Partners, we know that a little bit of stress is normal, but when it becomes overwhelming, it’s important to have strategies to build resilience.
Here’s how to navigate back-to-school stress, whether you’re a student, a parent, or a helping professional.
For Children and Teens: Building a Strong Foundation
The return to school can bring worries about making friends, keeping up with schoolwork, or dealing with social pressure. These anxieties are real and should be acknowledged.
Wendy Kopitsch, LLMSW at Bloom Behavioral Health Partners, notes that the first step is to “normalize those feelings of anxiety or nervousness for children.” This means acknowledging that new environments require time to acclimate to and that feeling nervous is a part of the “common humanity” of it all—something everyone experiences.
A simple, effective tool parents can teach their children is a mindful strategy based on the 5 Senses:
- 5 things you see
- 4 things you feel
- 3 things you hear
- 2 things you smell
- 1 thing you taste
This practice can be used before school, or even the night before if anxiety is interfering with bedtime. As a child gets older, they can easily prompt themselves throughout the day to calm their minds.
For Parents: Managing Your Own Anxiety
Parents often carry the weight of their child’s worries in addition to their own. The stress of school logistics, extracurriculars, and academic expectations can feel immense.
- Communicate and Connect: Talk openly with your child about their feelings without judgment. Share your own experiences with new beginnings to show them they aren’t alone.
- Prioritize Self-Care: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take time for yourself, whether it’s a quick walk, a quiet moment with a book, or a conversation with a friend. Your well-being directly impacts your ability to support your child.
- Collaborate, Don’t Control: Partner with your child in the back-to-school process. Involve them in decisions about their schedule or school supplies. This empowers them and reduces the feeling of being a passive participant.
For Helping Professionals and Teachers: Fostering a Supportive Environment
Educators and school staff are on the front lines, often managing the collective stress of an entire student body and their families. Their own well-being is critical to a healthy learning environment.
- Set Realistic Expectations: You cannot solve every problem. Focus on what is within your control, such as creating a welcoming classroom and providing clear communication.
- Lean on Your Community: Connect with fellow teachers and counselors. Sharing strategies and simply knowing you are not alone in the challenges you face can be incredibly validating.
- Model Resilience: Demonstrate healthy coping mechanisms for stress. By openly and appropriately managing your own feelings, you provide a powerful example for students and families alike.
A Note on Communication and Confidentiality
When it comes to coordination between a therapist and school staff, Wendy Kopitsch notes that “a teacher or administrator would need a release from the client or client’s parent/guardian.” With this release, a therapist can share insight into what the client and family are working on to achieve their goals, ensuring a consistent and supportive environment while maintaining confidentiality.
The transition back to school doesn’t have to be a source of dread. By acknowledging the challenges and actively working to build resilience, we can all make this a positive and empowering experience.
If you or your family are struggling with back-to-school anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out to Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. We are here to support you in navigating these transitions and building a foundation for emotional wellness.