Supporting Teens with Anxiety During Back-to-School Season

As the back-to-school season approaches, many teens experience heightened anxiety, particularly those transitioning from primary to secondary school or dealing with mental health challenges. Experts emphasize the importance of support from parents and peers to help navigate these emotional hurdles effectively.

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Dr. Brenda Lloyd-Jones from the University of Oklahoma advises parents to encourage their teens to be supportive friends while setting healthy boundaries. She emphasizes that teens should not feel pressured to act as therapists for their friends experiencing anxiety. Instead, parents should equip their children with compassionate language to use, such as “I am here for you” or “Perhaps you want to speak with the school counselor.” This approach fosters a supportive environment while guiding peers toward professional help.

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Psychotherapist Fahima highlights the significance of preparation before the school year begins. She notes that planning and discussing feelings can alleviate anxiety. Encouraging children to express their emotions through activities like journaling or doodling can also help them manage their feelings effectively.

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Open communication is crucial for both parents and teens. Fahima stresses that parents should create a safe space for their children to express their feelings without pressure. Regular check-ins can help parents understand their children’s emotional states and provide necessary support. This ongoing dialogue is particularly vital during the transition to secondary school, where unfamiliar environments and new social dynamics can be daunting.

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For teens struggling with eating disorders, the back-to-school season can present additional challenges. Adrian Swancar, a therapist, suggests maintaining open lines of communication and partnering with schools to ensure accommodations are in place. This may include flexible mealtimes or access to quiet spaces, which can significantly reduce daily stressors.

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Social media also plays a role in exacerbating anxiety, particularly regarding body image. Parents are encouraged to discuss the impact of social media on their teens and to promote body-diverse accounts. Establishing boundaries around social media use can help mitigate negative comparisons and anxiety.

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While many experts advocate for proactive communication and emotional support, some parents may struggle to find the time to implement these strategies due to work commitments. Critics argue that without adequate support systems, both parents and children may feel overwhelmed, potentially hindering effective emotional management.

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• “This is an ideal time for Paige to communicate with her daughter about establishing boundaries,” — Dr. Brenda Lloyd-Jones, University of Oklahoma

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• “I always say the more you can do beforehand, the less stress you'll feel that morning.” — Fahima, Psychotherapist

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• “When you make space for it, then you're not carrying it throughout the whole day.” — Fahima, Psychotherapist

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As the school year begins, it is essential for parents to actively support their teens through open communication, preparation, and emotional regulation strategies. By fostering a nurturing environment, parents can help their children navigate the complexities of adolescence and anxiety, ensuring a smoother transition into the new school year.

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