The Start of School Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

For some parents and students, the start of a new school year is exciting and filled with possibilities. For others, there may be anxiety and concern. But going back to school doesn’t have to be a stressful time for your family if you think and plan ahead. Here are some helpful tips proven to ease the transition.

Reestablish a routine. One of the things we all love about summer is that we tend to ease up on our routines to fit in summer activities. But consider easing back into a routine a few weeks before school starts. What does that look like? Get up and go to bed at a set time each day. As it gets closer to the start of the school year, adjust the time to fit what your schedule will be when school begins. It’s far easier to already be in that pattern, rather than try and start it on the first day back to the classroom.

Get enough sleep. High quality sleep, ideally at least eight hours a night, makes a difference. It can improve resilience, help curb anxiety and depression and gets students ready to learn.

Get active. Numerous studies have shown that as little as 20 minutes of exercise a day, three to five times a week, can vastly improve your mood and your physical health. It’s true for children as well as adults.

Make a list and start purchasing school supplies. Most schools will provide parents will a list of what their students will need for the coming year. Don’t wait until the last minute to try and run all over town for what you need. It only creates unnecessary stress. If you think it may be a challenge for your family to afford what’s required, talk with a school counselor or one of our social service agencies. Often assistance is available.

Talk with your student(s). Your children want you to be proud of them so talk with them about how important it is to attend school every day and to do well in school. If it’s important to you, it will be important to them. Remember to talk to your children about drugs and alcohol and how to handle situations when friends or classmates may offer them. Small talks can help set them up for success.

If you find that you – or your child – need more ideas to help manage stress and find balance as the start of school approaches, reach out to our staff at Oneida Behavioral Health. We can provide an extra level of support to restore harmony more quickly and address any unresolved emotions. You can reach us at (920) 490-3790.

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