Managing back to school stress

As the start of a new school year is approaching, it is natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Whether you’re a student gearing up for another year of learning or a parent preparing for the changes this season brings, we’re here to offer support and practical strategies to help you manage stress effectively.?

For parents:

1. Foster a supportive environment

Creating a supportive and open environment at home can help children feel secure and motivated. Encouraging open communication and expressing empathy can strengthen the parent-child relationship and support emotional resilience.

2. Encourage healthy habits

Research highlights the importance of healthy habits in supporting cognitive function and overall health. Healthy habits such as healthy eating, consistent physical activities, and good sleep hygiene can improve concentration, behavior, and academic performance.

3. Set realistic expectations

Setting realistic and achievable goals for your child can prevent undue pressure and promote a positive attitude toward learning. Encouraging effort and persistence rather than focusing solely on outcomes can foster a growth mindset.

4. Balance screen time

Excessive screen time can impact sleep and academic performance. Establishing boundaries around screen use, especially before bedtime, can improve sleep quality and overall health.

5. Get involved in school activities Engage with your child’s school community by attending events, volunteering, or participating in parent-teacher meetings. Parental involvement has been shown to enhance students' academic achievement and behavior.

For students:

1. Establish a routine

Creating a consistent daily routine can significantly impact academic performance and mental health. Research shows that routines can improve sleep patterns, reduce stress, and increase overall health. Aim for a regular sleep schedule, consistent meal times, and designated study periods.

2. Practice effective study habits?

Effective study habits include setting specific, manageable goals and using active learning techniques such as summarization, questioning, and self-explanation. According to research by Dunlosky et al. (2013), these techniques are proven to enhance long-term retention and understanding.

3. Manage stress through mindfulness?

Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing and meditation, have been shown to reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation in students. Incorporating short mindfulness exercises into your daily routine can help manage stress and improve focus.

4. Stay organized?

Using planners or digital tools to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and activities can help students stay organized and reduce last-minute stress. Studies indicate that organizational skills are linked to better academic outcomes and less anxiety.

5. Seek support when needed?

If you’re struggling with academic or emotional issues, don’t hesitate to seek help from teachers, school counselors, or mental health professionals at Makin Wellness. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming more serious.

Remember, transitioning back to school is a process, and it’s perfectly okay to experience a range of emotions along the way. Whether you’re a parent or a student, the key is to find strategies that work for you and seek support when needed.?

At Makin Wellness, we are here to support you through this transition. If you or your child are finding it particularly challenging to manage stress, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to offer guidance and support tailored to your needs. ??

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We wish you a smooth and successful start to the new school year??

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