Beyond the Bell: Addressing Mental Health in the Back-to-School Season

With summer coming to a close, school is back in session and kids across the country are collectively groaning at the thought of catching the school bus. Back-to–school season can be seen by many as a fresh start - new classes, new teachers, maybe some new friends, and a clean slate. But many students, parents, and even teachers face a quieter reality: anxiety, stress, and the societal pressure that weighs heavily on mental health. From adjusting to new routines to navigating social expectations and academic demands, this transitional period is overwhelming; acknowledging these challenges and learning how to face them are the first steps in creating a healthier, more supportive environment for everyone who walks through those school doors. 

For parents, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs or mental health concerns. Anxiety and stress can have a physical effect on a child’s body, such as changes in appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches, nausea, or fatigue. A child may seem more irritable or pick up new nervous habits, such as biting their nails or picking at their skin. Oftentimes, these warning signs can be sneaky, so it’s important to pay close attention to any behavioral changes so you can address the problem before it becomes unmanageable. 

Ease the Transition

This transition can be jarring for your child, especially if they are moving to a different school. Helping ease this transition can mitigate the inevitable anxiety and discomfort that comes with being thrust into a new, stressful environment. Exploring the new campus with your child can help them grow familiar with the new space in a supportive environment. Many schools have meet-the-teacher days before classes begin, and becoming familiar with these new faces can ease not only your child’s anxiety, but your own as well, and will give you an idea of what their daily experience will be like. 

Talk It Out

Communication is the biggest factor in supporting anyone’s mental health. Of course - especially if you have teenagers - it can be difficult to get your child to open up about their feelings. But if you create this supportive environment where communication is not only allowed, but encouraged, can help them come out of their shell. Even small comments like, “How are you feeling about going back to school?” or “It’s okay if you’re nervous,” can get a conversation started. 

Build a Support Network

It takes a village, after all. You can’t go to school with your child, so enlisting others that you can trust - such as teachers or guidance counselors - can bring in extra support to help your child succeed. These must be active listeners who will take your child’s mental health and wellbeing seriously, and who your child feels comfortable with. It’s important as well to keep your child informed on what you’re doing and why, to further encourage trust and communication.

Establish Routine

Much like adults, kids and teenagers benefit from having a structured routine. Maybe you’re the type of parent who establishes a strict bedtime over summer vacation, or maybe you let them stay up late and wake up at noon - no judgement either way. But during the school year, a routine offers several benefits, such as establishing a sense of stability, which reduces anxiety. Following a routine also improves time management, allowing your child to find a healthy balance between school, extracurriculars, and their own free time. Adding things like exercise and meditation to the routine will help show your child that self-care is also an important part of their day. 

Give Them Mental Health Days

Every now and then, your child may just need a break. I know a lot of people prioritize attendance, but the occasional mental health day can be beneficial to every student. These rest days provide a break from the stress of school life, whether the stress comes from peers or academic performance. These days, however, shouldn’t just be days to rot in bed - adding proactive activities, such as going for a walk, meditating, or talking it out, can help them rejuvenate and provide connection. 

While going back to school can be stressful, remember it’s also a new opportunity for growl and connection. If approached appropriately, it can be a new beginning with new experiences. Now is the time to show your child how to prioritize their mental and physical wellbeing so you can set them up for the future, when they are thrust into the woes of adulthood. Take this transitional period to check in, bond, and connect with your child and show them that they don’t have to face change alone.