Helping Your Teen Prepare for the School Year: Stress Coping Skills

1. Encourage Open Communication: One of the most important ways you can support your teen in preparing for the school year is by fostering open communication. Encourage your teen to talk about their feelings, concerns, and fears related to going back to school. Try to really listen and hear their concerns before you start problem solving. Jumping in and offering solutions too soon can deter communication. By creating a safe space for them to express themselves, you can help them feel heard and understood. This can also help you identify any specific stressors that your teen may be facing so that you can work together on finding solutions.
2. Prioritize Self-Care: Going back to school can be overwhelming for teens, especially if they have been out of their regular routine for an extended period. Encourage your teen to prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, eating well-balanced meals, and engaging in activities that bring them joy. Physical health is closely linked to mental health, so taking care of their bodies can help your teen better cope with stress and anxiety as they transition back to school.
3. Teach Stress Management Techniques: It’s important for teens to have a toolkit of stress management techniques that they can rely on when they are feeling overwhelmed. Encourage your teen to practice deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation techniques. These strategies can help them calm their mind and body in moments of stress and anxiety. Practice with them in the car or around the house. Becomming familiar with different techniques now will make these strategies more accessible throughout the school year.
4. Set Realistic Expectations: As a parent, it’s natural to want the best for your teen academically and socially. However, it’s important to talk to your teen about what they want and not put too much pressure on your teen as they head back to school. Help them understand that it’s okay to make mistakes and that failure is a natural part of learning and growth. By setting collaborative goals and expectations, you can help reduce some of the pressure that may contribute to your teen’s stress levels.
5. Seek Professional Support if Needed: If you notice that your teen is struggling with significant levels of stress or anxiety related to going back to school, talk to them about seeking professional support from a therapist or counselor. A mental health professional can provide additional coping strategies tailored to your teen’s specific needs and offer guidance on how best to support them during this challenging time.

Preparing for the school year can be a stressful time for both teens and parents alike. By implementing mindfulness and coping skills early on, you can help your teen build resilience and manage their anxiety effectively as they transition back into the school routine. Encouraging open communication, listening to your teen and prioritizing self-care are all effective ways to support your teen through the transition back to school.   Remember that every child is different, so it’s essential to tailor these strategies based on what works best for your individual teenager. With patience, understanding, and support, you can help your teen navigate the challenges of going back to school with confidence and resilience. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your teen!