Feeling Back-to-School Stress?

As the long summer days start to wind down, kids will soon be spending their days in the classroom instead of swimming pools. 

The transition comes with a wide range of emotions, so it’s important to show support and be prepared before school begins. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), anxiety is common among kids, teens, and parents during the start of a new school year. 

The Mental Health Coalition identified key symptoms in kids and teens that parents or guardians should look out for. Changes in appetite, energy, and hygiene are a few physical symptoms of anxiety. 

Parents may also notice their child has changes in mood and behaviors as the school year approaches. 

Some tips to ease stress include: 

• Get into a routine early: Gradually reintroduce morning and evening schedules. This may include laying out clothes the night before, getting up at the same hours as school and completing evening routines. 
• Validate feelings: It’s ok not to be ok. Let children know that what they’re feeling is normal and that they’re supported. 
• Provide confidence boosts: Help children focus on their positive personality traits. 
• Be mindful of your own anxiety: Children often model their behavior after their parents. Be aware of how you manage your own anxiety, especially when it comes to your child's back-to-school worries. 
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If anxiety becomes overwhelming, or begins to interfere with daily life, consider seeking professional counseling. 

There are many local organizations that offer free resources. 

Hillsborough County Mindful Mondays 

Mindful Mondays promotes different ways you can make your mental health a priority, despite having a busy schedule. From chair yoga virtual classes to tips on how to decompress after a long day, Hillsborough County's Mindful Mondays has various interactive resources for you to access no matter what day or time it is. New content updated on a continuing basis.