The return to school can be an exciting yet stressful time for children and teens. While some may eagerly anticipate the new year, others experience anxiety, depression, or difficulty adjusting. Understanding the psychological challenges that can arise during this time is important for parents and educators in supporting emotional well-being.
For many children, school-related anxiety is the most common challenge. This can manifest as worry about academic performance, social interactions, or separation from parents. Physical symptoms, such as stomach-aches or headaches, are often linked to these feelings. Social anxiety in particular can make the back-to-school transition especially difficult, as children worry about fitting in or being judged by peers.
Children with ADHD may struggle with the increased structure and demands of school, leading to stress around focus, organisation, and completing tasks. Similarly, for some children, the start of the school year may bring about or amplify feelings of depression, including irritability, lack of interest in activities, and changes in sleep or appetite.
While some level of anxiety or stress is normal, parents should be aware of signs that may indicate a more serious issue. Persistent mood changes, withdrawal from social activities, and difficulty concentrating can suggest deeper emotional distress. Unexplained physical complaints, like frequent headaches or stomach-aches, and changes in eating or sleeping habits may also signal anxiety or depression. If a child expresses feelings of hopelessness or talks about self-harm, it is critical to seek professional help immediately.
To help children manage the stress of returning to school, open communication is key. Encouraging children to express their feelings and providing reassurance can help reduce anxiety. Creating a consistent routine at home can also ease the transition, offering structure and stability as children return to school.
Teaching healthy coping mechanisms—such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or physical activity—can help children regulate their emotions when feeling overwhelmed. Fostering a growth mindset, where effort and resilience are celebrated over outcomes, can reduce academic pressure and build confidence.
If emotional distress persists or becomes more severe, seeking professional support is important. Early intervention through therapy or behavioural support can help children and teens manage their anxiety, depression, or ADHD symptoms and thrive during the school year.
The back-to-school transition is a time of change, and while some anxiety is normal, it’s important to recognise when a child may need extra support. By maintaining open communication, providing structure, and teaching coping strategies, parents can help their children navigate this period with confidence and resilience.
If your child requires additional support this year, please do not hesitate to call us on (07) 3716 0445 to discuss concerns and strategies with our professionals.
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