The transition from summer to school can be stressful for all children and parents, whether they’ve struggled with mental health before or not. Luckily, there are things parents, teachers and students can do to minimize the anxiety of a new school year.
Back to School Tips for Students
- Establish a routine: Getting back into a regular sleep schedule and consistent meal times can help reduce stress. Try starting this two weeks before school starts to make sure your body has adjusted.
- Be prepared: If possible, attend school orientations or meet with your teachers ahead of time. If you can’t go physically, learn about your school from its website.
- Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities you enjoy, whether it’s reading, exercising, or spending time with loved ones.
- Manage your time: Create a study schedule and break down large assignments into smaller tasks. Download a homework tracker to help.
- Build a support system: Talk to friends, family, or a counselor about your feelings.
- Practice mindfulness: Meditation or deep breathing can help manage stress and anxiety.
- Set aside a study space: Find a place that is pretty quiet. Add touches to show your personality and have all the supplies you need–and fidgets–on hand.
- Create a mindfulness jar: This is a fun craft that also helps with anxiety.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help! Reach out to your school counselor or a mental health professional if you need additional support. And if you need extra help, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
More Resources:
- Download a printable wellness journal.
- Download a flyer with mental health tips for middle schoolers.
- Learn about belly breathing for anxiety.
- Find mental health resources for LGBTQ+ teens at The Trevor Project.
- Discover the power of mindfulness from this site for teens.
- Read KidsHealth’s tips on handling stress.
- Learn about coping skills.
- Download an A-Z list of coping skills–that you can color!
Mental Health Tips for Parents: Back to School
Back to school can be stressful for everyone, including parents! Here are some tips to help you support your child’s mental health:
- Open communication: Create a safe space for your child to share their feelings and concerns.
- Model self-care: Show your child the importance of self-care by taking time for yourself.
- Limit screen time: Encourage balanced screen use to prioritize sleep and relaxation.
- Monitor social media: Be aware of your child’s online activity and discuss the potential impact of social media on mental health.
- Set boundaries: Establish clear expectations and limits, but also allow for independence.
- Build connections: Foster strong relationships with teachers and school staff.
- Seek support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to other parents or mental health professionals if needed.
Remember, you’re not alone! Many parents share similar experiences. By prioritizing your child’s mental health, you’re setting them up for success.
More Resources:
- Find mental health and substance use disorder resources for parents and caregivers.
- Learn about connecting with your t(w)eens.
- Discover how to build resilience.
- Download a flyer with back to school tips for parents.
- Find a local mental health provider.
- Find an upcoming session of Youth Mental Health First Aid.
- Download family conversation starter cards.
- Learn more about parent involvement from the CDC.
- Find a back-to-school mental health roadmap from The Mental Health Coalition.
- Check out the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Conversation Starters for Families About Media.