Supporting Teenagers with Back-to-School Stress & Anxiety

The transition back to school after summer holidays can be challenging for some teenagers. They may experience stress and anxiety as they adjust to new routines, teachers, and social dynamics. Understanding and supporting them through these changes can really make a difference to their emotional wellbeing. 

In our first session back after the summer break, we talked to our resident Clinical Psychologist, Dr Sarah-Jane Knight, about why some teenagers struggle going back to school and what parents and carers can do to help their teens settle back into the school routine.

Recognising the Signs of Stress & Anxiety

Sarah-Jane explained how teens can feel overwhelmed when returning to school after a break. They may exhibit signs of stress and anxiety through grumpiness, tiredness, and increased irritability. Just try to be patient with them and provide nurturing support. Simple things like preparing their favourite meals or helping them organise their school stuff can be enough to have a meaningful effect.

Helping Teens Settle Back into Routine

Initially, teens might need extra help remembering what they need for school. Gentle reminders about their uniform, diary, or lunch can be beneficial. Try and  keep your offer of support simple - you really are encouraging them rather than bombarding with questions.

Managing Emotional Outbursts

Teens might become tearful, withdrawn, or argumentative due to anxiety about school. Try to stay calm and patient, avoiding overreactions. Sarah-Jane suggested parents normalise their teens feelings of stress and focus on modelling calm behaviour to help them adjust more smoothly.

Addressing Negative Attitudes Towards School

If a teen is constantly negative about school, try to understand the context. Whether it's due to academic pressure, social issues, or new subjects, giving them time to adjust and offering a balanced perspective can help. Try to get them to find small solutions to issues - these problem-solving skills can really help develop their resilience. It also allows you to offer direct praise over the things they do well, which helps with self-esteem and confidence.

Handling Social Challenges

Sarah-Jane shared how some teens may struggle with social relationships at school. Helping them to look at friendships and peers from different perspectives and encouraging them to reflect on their behaviour might improve their social interactions. If necessary, a quiet word with school and some subtle social engineering by the school, might also benefit them.

Encouraging Nurturing Activities

Engaging teens in nurturing activities, even if they prefer to stay in their rooms, can be helpful. Activities that don't require intense face-to-face interaction, like watching TV together or cooking, can help maintain a connection. Celebrating small successes and providing consistent, loving support is crucial.

Dealing with School Avoidance

For teens who are anxious about attending school, small negotiated adjustments can help and its important to speak with your school about this. Schools will often have strategies to ease these transitions, such as staggered starts or alternative lunch arrangements. 

Supporting teenagers through the back to school transition requires a bit of patience, more understanding and a balanced approach, but as always, with the right support and some TLC, most teens will get back into the flow of things.

For more advice on related topics including school avoidance, take a look at the existing sessions on the Let’s all Talk Mental Health hub.