As summer vacation comes to a close, students are returning to school in waves across the globe. The beginning of the school year can be an exciting time for some, but for others, it can be a source of great anxiety and stress. As a therapist or mental health professional, you are probably noticing a surge in child and adolescent referrals. Going back to school can trigger many emotional challenges for students of all ages.
Separation Anxiety
For young students, separation anxiety is a common issue during the first few weeks of school. Children may cling to their parents or caregivers, cry, or plead not to go to school. It is a real concern for children and their parents. Assure your clients that it’s normal to feel this way and offer coping strategies to help ease the transition, such as practicing separation at home, having a goodbye routine, and reminding them of when they will be reunited with their loved ones. Developing additional coping skills and resources might also be helpful.
Understanding Academic Pressure
High school and college students may feel immense pressure to achieve high grades, leading to stress and anxiety. As a therapist, it’s important to validate these concerns and teach stress-reduction techniques in addition to helping them develop their approach to academic tasks. Encourage students to break down their academic goals into manageable tasks to alleviate feelings of being overwhelmed. Help your clients understand that it’s okay to ask for help or take a break when needed.
Addressing Social Anxiety
For many students, school can be a difficult social environment. They may feel isolated or bullied by their peers. Helping students navigate social situations and build healthy relationships is central to treatment plans. Encourage your clients to join clubs, after-school programs, sports teams, or other extracurricular activities to meet like-minded individuals and form new connections. Practicing social skills and building self-esteem through therapy can also be effective.
Encouraging Communication
Children and adolescents function within multiple systems and establishing frequent communication between students, parents, and teachers is key. By fostering positive relationships and understanding, students can better communicate their needs and concerns. Encourage students to speak openly with their parents and teachers about any issues they may be facing, and encourage parents and teachers to take concerns seriously.
Self-Care Strategies
Finally, remind your clients of the importance of self-care, especially during times of high stress. Encourage them to prioritize healthy sleep habits, exercise, proper nutrition, and relaxation techniques like mindfulness and meditation. Mental health professionals can also refer clients to local resources, such as support groups or community mental health clinics.
Going back to school is both exciting and stressful for students. Your role as their therapist helps to both validate their feelings and helps them face the challenges of the school year with resilience and confidence.