Back to School Anxiety and Stress

August is back to school month once again! As we get back into the classroom, it is important to discuss academic related anxiety. The National Institute of Health conducted a research study in 2020 that found 25-40% of students struggle with academic related anxiety. Academic related anxiety can be rooted to performance, peers, family, and self-esteem. Below are a few strategies that can be helpful this school year for our students: 

• Establishing a routine with sleep, school schedule, and home.
• Establishing a space with minimal distractions at home designated for schoolwork. 
• Using timers for schoolwork and breaktime while at home to help students stay on task. 
• Keeping a calendar in a common area with assignment due dates, club involvements, and sporting events/practices marked. 
• Conducting weekly check-ins with our students to discuss upcoming assignments, as well checking in on how our students are doing mentally, emotionally, and physically. 

It is essential to acknowledge the increase in academic related anxiety post pandemic. Mental Health Professionals are discussing the impacts of isolation and difficulties shown for students transitioning post pandemic, specifically in overall academic performance, self-confidence, developmentally, and socially. 

Eat, Sleep, and Exercise are critical during this time.

Should your student's back to school transition become difficult, call us at 859.338.0466 to schedule an appointment with one of our Mental Health Professionals today.