With the start of the new school year just around the corner, many students and parents are feeling the pressure and stress that comes with this time of year. Whether it’s the anxiety of starting a new school, the pressure of academic expectations, or the challenges of juggling a busy schedule, it’s important to develop coping strategies to manage the back to school stress. Here are some helpful tips to make the transition back to school a little smoother and deal with back-to-school anxiety:

 

1. Get organized: Create a schedule or planner to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and extracurricular activities. This will help you stay on top of your workload and reduce the stress of last-minute cramming or forgotten assignments.

 

2. Take care of yourself: Make sure to prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, eating well, and getting regular exercise. Taking care of your physical well-being can have a powerful impact on your mental health and stress levels.

 

3. Seek support: Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or teachers for support when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Talking through your stressors with someone you trust can provide a sense of relief and perspective. If you need more help, consider talking to a professional and getting their guidance and suggestions.

 

4. Practice mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your daily routine to help manage stress and improve focus. Yoga can help reduce stress because it promotes relaxation, which is the natural opposite of stress. Yoga can benefit three aspects of ourselves that are often affected by stress: our body, mind, and breathing.*

 

5. Trust your gut: Watch for changes in your child’s performance during the school year. If they are showing signs of struggling academically or socially, ask for help.  Your child might need to be tested for a learning disability or have ADHD testing.  Talk to your teacher and school counselor.  The sooner your child receives the testing and possibly the modifications they need, the better.

 

By implementing these simple tips, you can make the back-to-school transition smoother and more manageable. Remember, it’s important to take care of yourself and prioritize your well-being during this busy time of year.