Back-to-School Anxiety
Child and adolescent psychologists say back-to-school jitters are typical, but there are ways you can help your child feel empowered.
Jennifer Keller, PsyD recommends asking your child open-ended questions about their feelings, as they allow children to come up with their own unique reaction and answer. One example is, “How do you feel about this upcoming school year?” as opposed to “Are you nervous about school?”
Dr. Keller said it’s not unusual for children to feel nervous before a new school year, and they often will worry about the “what-ifs” and let their minds race to worst-case scenarios. To help curb those nerves, Dr. Keller suggests that you offer your student as much information as possible. If you know which classroom they’ll be assigned to, let them know. If your school allows you to tour before classes start, go with them to take a look around.
And, as she said, keep the conversation flowing with opened-ended questions, because avoiding the issue can worsen anxiety.
Indicators that your child is dealing with a more significant anxiety issue include:
- Emotional meltdowns
- Panic attacks
- They avoided going to school last year
University Health Behavioral Health offers counseling, case management, medication services and peer support groups to help your child thrive. You can visit our page or give us a call to learn more.
Crossroads location (300 W. 19th St., Kansas City) - 816-404-5709
Lakewood Counseling location (300 SE 2nd St., Lee’s Summit) - 816-404-6170