Teen Counseling: Discussing Back-to-School Anxiety
Teen Counseling: Discussing Back-to-School Anxiety
Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC
As Summer comes to an end and the new school year approaches, it's normal for many teens to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. The thought of going back to school can stir up a range of emotions.
As an anxiety therapist, I understand how important it is to recognize these feelings and work on developing effective strategies to manage them.
In this blog, I outline some common concerns that parents often have about their teenagers. I offer practical tips and strategies to help ease their anxiety and promote positive mental well-being. It is important for parents to understand the unique challenges that teens face in today. By addressing these concerns and providing support, we can foster a healthy and supportive environment for our teenagers as they navigate through adolescence.
Anxiety About the New Changes at School
Anticipatory stress is common among students. Your teen might worry about what their classes will be like, whether their teachers will be nice, or if they'll make new friends. This type of stress stems from the uncertainty of the unknown. To help your teen combat anticipatory stress, consider these tips:
Gather information: Encourage your teen to gather as much information as possible about their upcoming classes, teachers, and school activities. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety.
Set realistic expectations: Help your teen understand that it's normal to feel anxious about new experiences. Allow them time to adjust and settle into the new routine.
Stay positive: Focus on the positives of the upcoming school year, such as reuniting with friends, learning new things, and participating in extracurricular activities.
Stress About Getting Back Into a Routine
Getting back into a school routine after a few weeks of Summer relaxation and unwinding can be tough. The transition from having little to no responsibilities to a structured schedule can be challenging and may lead to a lack of motivation. Here are some tips to help your teen get back on track:
Create a schedule: Start by gradually reintroducing a daily routine a week or two before school starts. Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up time to help their body adjust.
Set small goals: Encourage your teen to break down tasks into smaller, manageable goals. Completing small tasks can give them a sense of accomplishment and motivate them to tackle larger ones.
Find their why: Remind your teen why education is important. Whether it's achieving good grades, getting into a desired college, or pursuing a future career, keeping long-term goals in mind can boost their motivation.
Anxiety About Being Accepted Socially
Social anxiety can be particularly challenging as teens return to school, especially if they've spent much of the summer in more isolated environments. Worrying about social interactions, fitting in, and making friends can be overwhelming. Here are some ways to support your teen:
Validate their concerns. Take the time to understand their concerns and normalize their feelings
Limit social media: Teenagers can get a false sense of social connection through social media. Limiting engagement with these platforms can inherently motivate teens to socialize in person.
Encourage social activities: Suggest they join clubs or sports teams to meet peers with similar interests.
Professional help: If social anxiety seems severe, consider seeking help from a therapist who can provide strategies and support.
Back-to-school anxiety is a common experience for many teens, but it doesn't have to overshadow the excitement of a new school year. By recognizing and addressing anticipatory stress, helping your teen find ways to stay motivated, and managing college anticipation anxiety, you can support them in navigating the start of the school year with confidence. Remember, it's okay to seek help from a therapist or counselor if your teen is feeling overwhelmed. They can provide strategies and support to help your teen manage their anxiety and make the most of their school experience.
Ready to start Teen Counseling Orlando?
Did anything in this blog resonate with you or your teen? Our team is here and ready to help kickstart your teen's healing journey whenever they're ready. To connect with a Teen Therapist at Mindful Living Counseling:
Fill out our New Client Consultation Form
Schedule a consultation call with one of our teen therapists.
Start the journey of helping your teen heal.
Not Quite Ready for Teen Counseling?
The counselors at Mindful Living Counseling are here to support your teen! Based in Orlando, our therapists are ready to equip your teen with the tools to conquer any anxiety they might be facing. If your teen isn't quite ready for counseling, no worries! In the meantime, feel free to take a look at the articles below.
Additional Teen Counseling Resources
Anxiety Therapy Orlando: Digital Wellness
How to Validate Your Teen So They Feel More Understood
How to Find an Orlando Therapist for Teens
What to Expect: Teen Therapy Orlando
Therapist Orlando Spotlight - Elizabeth Chambers, LMHC
8 Questions to Ask a Teen Counselor in Orlando
How to Talk to Your Teen: 6 Helpful Steps
An Anxiety Therapist Shares Everything You Need to Know About Anxiety
Other Therapy Services Offered at Mindful Living Counseling in Orlando, FL
The team at Mindful Living Counseling understands that anxiety can be a significant obstacle to overcome, but we also acknowledge that there may be other challenges that you may be facing. That's why we offer a wide range of therapy services, including Trauma Therapy, EMDR Therapy, and Teen Therapy, as well as Guided Meditations. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you.
About Anxiety Therapist: Lauran Hahn
Lauran Hahn, LMHC, is an Orlando-based anxiety therapist who specializes in helping clients who are struggling with trauma, and healing from toxic relationships. Lauran is also a Certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapist, a Certified EMDR Therapist, and an EMDRIA Approved Consultant, providing EMDR intensives. It's Lauran's goal to help her clients feel calm in their bodies, at peace in their minds, and connected in their relationships.