How to Help Your Child with Back-to-School Anxiety

Whether it's beginning preschool or senior year of high school, the back-to-school season can cause anxiety and stress among children and young adults. There are some common signs or symptoms you can look for when your child is feeling stressed but may not be expressing it:

• Trouble sleeping
• Headaches
• Stomach aches
• Irritability or tantrums
• Refusing to go to school
• In young adults, repeated absences or negative self-talk

There are certain things parents can do to help ease into the back-to-school process, regardless of your child's age:

Get Prepared

Start the back-to-school routine two to three weeks before school begins. Start going to bed and waking up earlier. Try to eat on a regular schedule that mimics the school day. Practice the usual morning routine, including laying out clothes the night before and practicing the travel route.

Walk Through School Before the First Day

This is especially important for children starting a new school, but even for returning students it's reassuring to know how to find your classroom and locker.

Use a Visual Schedule

Visual schedules, like a whiteboard or shared calendars, can also be helpful for the whole family to stay on the same page with their day's activities, build routines for all, help set and dedicate time for your child to complete homework or even plan technology-free fun and relaxation time.

In some cases, back-to-school anxiety can be a sign of something more serious. These are the signs or symptoms parents should watch for:

• Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness or guilt
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Decreased energy or concentration
• Decreased interest in things the child used to enjoy
• Outbursts of anger or sadness
• Statements of self harm

Adolescence (ages 10-19) is the most common time for depression to be diagnosed. In young children, depression can often mimic the symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

If parents observe any of these signs or symptoms of something more serious, reach out to your child's pediatrician, a psychologist or a school guidance counselor.