Supporting Students As They Transition Back to School
For many families, the start of the school year is a time to return to routine and structure. However, for students, it is a time to return to stress and can be filled with schedules that are hard to keep up with and many more expectations and responsibilities that are hard to juggle. Although there are many advantages to the school year, such as the consistency and regularity of what day-to-day life looks like, students may experience an increase in anxiety and depressive symptoms. These anxiety and depressive symptoms may be related to the emergence of more pressure to succeed and high standards for perfectionism. Below are some helpful and important ways to offset this increase in anxiety and depressive symptoms and to promote more satisfaction and fulfillment.
Establish Consistent Mealtimes and Bedtimes
Hunger and fatigue are contributors to anxiety and depressive symptoms. By setting and maintaining consistent mealtimes and bedtimes, you can ensure students are gaining the nutrients they need to function at their best from the start of their day to the end of their day, as well as enough rest for the night to best prepare them for the following day.
Promote Efforts Rather Than Outcomes
Students may put a lot of pressure on themselves to study hard in order to succeed which can increase stress and burnout. By focusing on efforts rather than outcomes, students can build the confidence they need to try their best rather than to be the best. This change in perspective can allow them to put less pressure on themselves and feel more satisfied in what they can and will do.
Normalize Worries and Stress
Students may feel like they are the only ones struggling with academic worries and concerns which can increase isolation and withdrawal. By normalizing what they are going through and talking with them about their worries and stress, students can feel validated and less overwhelmed.