Back-To-School Anxiety Tips: Ways to Support Your Child and Teen

Going back to school can bring up anxiety for both children and their caregivers. Whether it be the workload or social engagements, the stress of the school year may be challenging to navigate. For parents and guardians who don’t know where to start, check out these potential signs of anxiety and tips on helping your child overcome school anxiety. 

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is an important emotional response that can alert us to danger. It activates our fear response system= the parasympathetic nervous system- often referred to as “fight or flight "While anxiety is essential for our safety, it can also arise in non-dangerous situations, making new and everyday tasks challenging.

Signs & symptoms: What school anxiety can look like

For kids and teenagers, school can be overwhelming. They may experience anxiety with the workload or making and maintaining friendships. Signs of school anxiety can appear differently from person to person, but here are some common behaviors:

• Excessive worrying about school, friendships, or family 

• Difficulty concentrating or completing schoolwork 

• Trouble falling or staying asleep 

• Frequent headaches or stomachaches with no medical cause 

• Irritability or emotional outbursts 

• Avoiding school, activities, or social situations 

• Wanting constant reassurance 

• Feeling overwhelmed by changes or uncertainty 

How to help kids cope with anxiety

Effective coping skills can largely reduce anxiety symptoms. Modeling these behaviors yourself is an excellent place to start. Here are a few anxiety coping tips for kids:

1. Talk openly about their feelings with someone they trust.

2. Practice slow, deep breathing and mindfulness.

3. Make time for physical activity each day.

4. Prioritize sleep (Ages 6-12 need 9-12 hours of sleep, and ages 13-18 need 8-10 hours of sleep).

5. Eat consistent, balanced meals.

6. Break large tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

7. Spend time doing activities that bring them joy.

8. Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength. 

Anxiety tips for parents 

In addition to anxiety coping strategies, creating a calm and consistent home environment plays an important role in helping your child build resilience. Here are some tips for parents, guardians, and caregivers on how to support their child as they go back to school:

1. Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable sharing their feelings.

2. Listen with curiosity and empathy rather than immediately offering solutions.

3. Help your child name their emotions and practice healthy coping skills.

4. Keep routines consistent, especially around sleep, meals, and homework.

5. Model healthy ways to manage your own stress.

6. Stay connected with teachers and healthcare providers if concerns arise.

When to get professional support

Anxiety can be challenging to tackle alone. We encourage you to reach out to your medical or mental health provider if your kid and teen present these additional symptoms:  

• Symptoms last for several weeks or continues to worsen. 

• It becomes difficult to attend school or participate in daily activities.

• Ongoing sleep problems. 

• Frequent physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches. 

• Friendships or family relationships are negatively affected. 

• Symptoms prevent your child from enjoying activities they once loved. 

Anxiety is a normal and manageable emotion. With early support, children and teens can develop healthy coping skills so they can thrive in school and at home.  Learn more and get started with Clinica’s behavioral health services today!