How to Reduce Back-to-School Anxiety
By Genevieve Cunningham
The back-to-school season can be an incredibly stressful time. There are new routines, new expectations, and new rules to follow. Everyone is busier than ever, and it becomes incredibly difficult to keep up with the fast pace. For many kids, this can bring about some frustrating anxiety. As a parent, it’s tough to watch your child suffer anxiety and be unable to help. Luckily, there may be some ways to help your children after all. If you have students in your life who are suffering from that back-to-school anxiety, these tips may help you steer them in the right direction and get their anxiety under control.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead makes a huge dent in almost all cases of anxiety. Anxiety is often a problem with the what if or the unknown. This causes us to stress, and since we don’t have any answers, we feel anxious. If you can plan ahead as much as possible, much of that initial anxiety is alleviated. Plan the logistics of getting to and from school, the emergency situations, and any circumstance that makes your child feel nervous. The more you have planned in advance, the easier it will be to calm nerves and feel at ease.
Don't Overextend Yourself
It’s important to keep things in perspective. Yes, participation is important. But overextending either yourself or your child will only make anxiety worse. Get involved, but don’t take on more than you can chew. Keep the activities to a minimum until everyone is comfortable enough to try something else. This helps keep everyone busy while still allowing for adequate rest.
Find Some Help
It’s OK to ask for help -- no matter what kind of help is needed. Is your child anxious because of grades? Hire them a tutor. Are they anxious because of friends or social pressures? Hire a counselor or therapist. Getting help when it’s needed is a smart choice, one that can change your life or the life of your child. If anxiety is too much this fall, get some help and protect your family for good.
Going back to school can certainly create a bit of stress and anxiety. There’s so much to do and process; it can get overwhelming! To protect your child and family from the woes of anxiety, use these tips starting today. With a little planning, an open mind, and maybe a little help, you can keep your family healthy, strong, and anxiety-free all season long.
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