Navigating Back to School Anxiety: Tips for Parents and Students

A new school year can bring up feelings of sadness and anxiety for many children and young people

A new school year can bring up feelings of sadness and anxiety for many children and young people.

Why does this happen?

There are many reasons your child might feel sad or anxious about returning to school:

Some children may experience separation anxiety when it is time to return to school. After a summer spent with family, they might feel sad about being apart. They might worry about being away from loved ones or fear that something could happen to them or their family while they are separated.

Change in routine may also be a contributing factor – days tend to be less structured in school holidays so adapting back to a new routine can be destabilising or anxiety provoking. 

Academic pressure is another common cause of anxiety. Many children worry they will not do well in school and will disappoint their parents. Children with undiagnosed learning challenges may feel particularly vulnerable without the support they need. 

Peer relationships can also cause anxiety about school. Children may feel nervous about making friends or dealing with social situations. If your child experienced bullying or struggles to make friends, the thought of returning to school can feel daunting.

Children with medical conditions may also feel anxious about returning to school. They may worry about managing their illness throughout the school day, or about how their illness will be perceived by others.

What can help?

Emotional Support. Reassure your child that both you and they are safe. Express confidence in their ability to handle the challenges they face at school. If your child is struggling to cope with learning challenges, celebrate their strengths and let them know that you are proud of them. For children who struggle with separation, keep goodbyes brief and remind them that you will be there waiting when they return home.

Coping Skills. Work with your child to find ways to make returning to school easier for them. While it is important for them to understand they must go back, there are strategies to make it less overwhelming. For example, you can include a special note in their lunchbox, or walk them into the school on the first few days. Introducing them to their teacher before school starts may also help ease their anxiety. Additionally, teaching them calming techniques, such as breathing exercises, can soothe their nervous system. Help them identify and manage worry thoughts to further ease their anxiety.

Healthy Habits. Encourage your child to maintain good sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity. Taking care of their physical health can help to reduce their vulnerability to stress.

Comfort zone. Ensure your child has a warm and comforting space to come home to after school. Sometimes, simply sitting with your child so that they are not sitting alone is comforting and reassuring, especially if they are struggling with academics or friendships at school.

Support Team. Sometimes, children need additional support. If your child is struggling with separation anxiety, academic worries, bullying, or managing a health condition at school, consider informing their teacher or counsellor. A teacher who is aware of these challenges can provide extra help and understanding.

It is natural for children and young people to feel some sadness and anxiety about returning to school, much like how you might feel after going back to work after a wonderful vacation. After a summer spent with loved ones, it is natural to feel uneasy about separating from them. It is also normal to worry about academic pressures, friendships, or health concerns, especially if there have been challenges in the past.

Let your child know that you believe in their ability to overcome these challenges and help them build the skills, confidence, and support network they need. If you or your child need additional assistance, consider reaching out to a school counsellor or clinician for extra support. Together, you and your child can navigate back to school anxiety and blues!

You can find out more about Dr Wafa and the team at Sage Clinics: here.

For more information about the services Sage Clinics offers or to book an appointment please contact +971 4 575 5684, at appointments@sage-clinics.com or through the chat function in the bottom right corner of the website.

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