As parents and teens prepare for back to school, their focus is often buying supplies, clothes shopping, and checking class schedules, which is important. Even so, parents need to pay close attention to their teenagers' moods and behaviour leading up to school since stress levels and mental health warning signs are likely to increase. Transitioning back to school is challenging for most teens, but for 20% of teens with mental illness or learning disabilities, it can be an overwhelming experience.
In light of the upcoming school year, your teen might be displaying a few warning signs this month, so please look out for the following:
Headaches or other unexplained aches and pains
Feeling sad or moody
Having a feeling of exhaustion
Sounding defeated when talking about challenges
Trouble sleeping
Changes in appetite
Fighting with family and friends
Trouble thinking clearly
Acting nervous or anxious
You might not be able to stop what is stressing your teen, but you can support them this month by following these six suggestions.
Remind them to be kind to themselves
There are no perfect people in the world, and no one always gets things right. I believe that trying is the most important thing in these first few weeks of this new transition.
Assist them in managing their time
Many teens struggle with time management. If your teen feels overwhelmed with all they need to do, help them work in small chunks or breakdown tasks and set small goals so that everything is achievable and not left till the last minute.
Take note of your behaviour.
Teens still take cues from their parents, so the more confidence and calm you can model, the more your teen will believe they can handle this transition level.
Focus on the positive while acknowledging the negative.
In general, teens can feel better about life if they focus on the positives of a situation. Focusing on what's positive in life builds resilience. By validating what's negative in their world, you show them that you understand. The more often you do so, the more likely they will share in the future.
Look out for signs of substance abuse use.
Stress can cause teens to turn to drugs, alcohol, or vaping as a coping mechanism. Educate your teen or child about the dangers of substances and how they can lead to bigger problems if they use them.
Tell them that you love them and ask how you can help support them better.
Teenagers may feel stressed out if they need your approval. It's important that they know you will always love them and always be there for them. Additionally, as parents, you may believe you understand what type of support they need, but it's often the wrong type. Ask them what you can do to help them.
"Embrace Uncertainty! Some of the most beautiful chapters in our lives won't have titles until much later."
Best wishes for a successful start to the school year to all families.
Feel free to reach out to us at support@healthyroutes.ca if you require additional support this fall.
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