Navigating New Beginnings: Addressing Back-to-School Anxiety
Navigating New Beginnings: Addressing Back-to-School Anxiety
by Josh Collingwood
While this can be an exciting time of new beginnings for some, it can be a source of anxiety and stress for others. The two main concerns that I hear from students this time of year typically revolve around their teachers and their friends. This is especially true if there is not only a change in grade, but also a change in schools.
A student moving from middle school to high school (or starting school in a new town after the family has moved) faces a few more uncertainties than a sophomore becoming a junior in the same building. Questions of whether they will like their teachers and whether there is anyone they know in their classes are always at the forefront.
A lot of students tend to base their opinions about teachers on what they hear from others. If a teacher is perceived as “hard” or “unfair”, or is otherwise not the preferred option, this can be a source of anxiety. I also hear clients talk about navigating unfamiliar buildings with new class schedules and trying to get to the appropriate rooms on time.
Then there’s the social layer. Facing uncertainty with friends makes it seem less intimidating. Often, the source of back-to-school anxiety stems from questions like “Who will I sit with on the bus now that my family moved and I’ve switched schools?” or statements like “I have no classes with friends on my schedule”.
In working with clients who have back-to-school anxiety, here are four ideas that have proven helpful:
1. Walking their schedules
This is particularly helpful when there is a transition between buildings (middle school to high school), if students can “walk their schedules” – going from room to room to familiarize themselves with the new environment, that can help cut down on fears of not being able to find their classrooms.
2. Finding their friends
If students know that one or more class periods do overlap with a friend or two, even if they’re not sitting with that person, their presence in a room of unfamiliar faces can go a long way. Even if it’s only one or two class periods, that’s better than none at all, and it can be a springboard into more friendship connections.
3. Making one new friend
Often, the turning point for students who just moved to a new school is when they find one new friend with whom to connect. That new friendship can then bring more introductions leading to more new friends. Before they know it, all that anxiety has turned to eagerness to be with new friends.
4. Finding enjoyable activities at school
Similar to adults, students often form friendships based on common interests. That could be a sport that they play, or it could be theater, band, or some type of after-school activity.
When to seek therapy
If back-to-school anxiety seems particularly high this year or is interfering with attendance and overall wellness, our therapists at Restoration Counseling are available to help. You can read our bio’s under the about section of our website to help you find the best fit, and when you’re ready, you can request an appointment by phone at 317-207-9333, or by requesting an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!
