Back-to-School Health: Combating Stress and Anxiety

The return to school after the summer holidays can be an exciting time, filled with new opportunities and friendships. However, for many children and young people, it also brings feelings of anxiety. Supporting back to school health goes beyond physical wellbeing, it includes helping pupils manage the emotional challenges that often come with a new term.

It’s perfectly normal for children and teenagers to feel unsettled when routines change. Some of the most common triggers at the start of term include:

• New environments: Moving to a new class, year group or even a different school.
• Academic pressures: Worries about homework, exams or keeping up with peers.
• Friendship concerns: Navigating changing social groups or coping with peer pressure.
• Practical changes: Earlier mornings, busy schedules and adapting to structure after a long break.

Recognising these triggers early can help parents, carers and teachers take proactive steps to ease the transition.

Resilience doesn’t mean eliminating stressors completely, but teaching children healthy ways to cope when challenges arise. Some simple strategies include:

• Encourage routine: Regular sleep, balanced meals and physical activity help regulate mood and energy levels.
• Open conversations: Create space for children to share how they are feeling without fear of judgement.
• Problem-solving together: Help them break challenges into manageable steps rather than feeling overwhelmed.
• Relaxation techniques: Breathing exercises, mindfulness or creative activities such as drawing can provide outlets for anxious feelings.

These habits support not just back-to-school health, but also long-term wellbeing.

Parental support is one of the most powerful tools in helping children navigate stress and anxiety. Here are a few practical ways to provide reassurance:

• Listen and validate: Even if their worries seem small, acknowledging feelings shows children they are taken seriously.
• Be positive but realistic: Encourage optimism while preparing them for the challenges ahead.
• Model calm behaviour: Children often mirror how adults manage stress. Showing patience and balance sets a strong example.
• Stay connected with school staff: Teachers can provide insight and additional support if anxieties persist.

No parent or carer needs to face this alone. There are excellent resources available to support young people’s emotional wellbeing:

• Kooth: A free, safe and anonymous online counselling and support service for children and young people. Visit Kooth here.
• NHS Every Mind Matters: Practical tips and resources for mental health. Learn more about Every Mind Matters.
• YoungMinds: Advice and support for both parents and young people. Visit YoungMinds.

The start of a new school year can be a fresh beginning, but it’s also a time when many children experience heightened stress and anxiety. By recognising triggers, building emotional resilience and offering steady parental support, we can make the transition smoother and healthier for all.

Focusing on back-to-school health means looking after the mind as well as the body, helping young people step into the year ahead with confidence and resilience.