Parkland expert offer tips for managing back-to-school anxiety
Prioritizing your student’s mental health
Yellow buses are hitting the streets as students across Dallas County return to classrooms and parents rejoice at the return of school. But for some adolescents back-to-school season can heighten anxiety. A mental health expert from Parkland Health shares how to help teens manage these feelings and ease their transition.
For many kids and teens, the thought of returning to school can trigger anxiety, Taylor Hayes, LPC, NCC, a mental health counselor at Parkland explains. “Anxiety about going back to school can stem from various sources, including academic pressures, social dynamics and the general shift in routine. It’s important for parents and guardians to normalize these feelings and provide support,” Hayes said.
Creating an environment where your teen feels comfortable expressing their concerns is crucial. Hayes recommends parents encourage open dialogue about their worries. “Let your child know that their feelings are valid and that it’s okay to discuss what’s on their mind,” she said.
A consistent routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability. Help your teen establish a structured daily routine that includes time for study, relaxation and social activities. A predictable schedule can alleviate stress by reducing uncertainty.
Introducing your teen to mindfulness techniques can also be beneficial. “Techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness exercises can help manage anxiety symptoms,” Hayes said. “By incorporating healthy coping mechanisms at home, your child can learn to utilize them whenever they feel overstimulated.”
A balanced diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep are also essential for managing anxiety. Additionally, setting realistic goals ahead of the school year can help prevent burnout and make challenges feel more manageable.
Encouraging your student to stay connected with friends and participate in social activities can also provide emotional support. Social connections can serve as a buffer against anxiety. Encourage your teen to maintain and nurture friendships and engage in activities they enjoy, Hayes advises.
If anxiety persists or becomes overwhelming, it may be helpful to seek professional support. “If your child’s anxiety interferes significantly with their daily life or academic performance, consider consulting a mental health professional,” Hayes said. Seek professional help if your child is suddenly sleeping more than normal, you notice behavioral changes or your child’s appetite has changed dramatically.
Back-to-school anxiety is a common experience for many adolescents, but with the right support and strategies, it can be managed effectively. By fostering open communication, establishing routines and encouraging healthy habits, parents can help their teens navigate this transition.
The Parkland Behavioral Health Clinic offers a range of mental health services provided by psychiatrists, behavioral health providers, clinical social workers, psychiatric nurses and psychologists. For more information about behavioral health services available at Parkland, please visit www.parklandhealth.org/behavioral-health.
For more support and resources on managing anxiety, Hayes recommends parents utilize the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line, a free helpline offering guidance, information, resources and support for mental health and addiction. Whether you are seeking resources for yourself or for someone else, call the free helpline at 972-525-8181 Monday - Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Parkland Health Foundation team believes that screenings for pediatric behavioral health issues should be as routine as any other check-up. The Foundation is leveraging the power of philanthropy to provide regular behavioral health screenings for at-risk children, better integrate mental and physical pediatric health services and implement a trauma-informed child and family service system. Learn more about the Foundation’s goal to provide behavioral health screenings to 12,000 Dallas-area children each year by visiting www.parklandhealthfoundation.org/areas-of-need/pediatric-behavioral-health.
For information about services available at Parkland, visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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