It’s that time of year again when summer days turn into school days. For many of us, returning to school can bring excitement and, let’s be honest, a bit of anxiety. But don’t worry; you’ve got this! Let’s dive into those back-to-school butterflies and uncover strategies to conquer them like you’re champs.

Let’s examine what really causes our anxieties:

First off, it’s totally okay to feel a little jittery about returning to school. It’s super common, and almost everyone goes through it. So, what’s causing those butterflies in your stomach? Here are some common back-to-school anxieties:

1. Meeting New People: Meeting new classmates can be nerve-wracking whether you’re starting a new school or just moving up a grade. Many questions and worries go through your mind- Will they like you? Will you fit in? Everyone’s feeling a bit uncertain, so remember you are not alone.
2. Academic Pressure: The thought of new subjects, more challenging assignments, and exams can be overwhelming. Be bold and ask questions. Good teachers love students who ask questions and are eager to learn. So ask away! Remember, it’s okay. Learning is a journey.
3. Social Expectations: The pressure to have the “perfect” social life can be intense. Real friendships take time to develop, and it’s okay to be yourself. No judgement! Usually, we are harder on ourselves than others. Most of the time, friendship comes naturally. 
4. Organizational Stress: Keeping up with schedules, assignments, and extracurriculars can feel like a juggling act. But guess what? You can become a master organizer with a bit of practice. A schedule app is the best for this. 

Now that we know what are some things that cause our anxieties. Let’s look at some strategies for overcoming them. Let’s kick those anxieties to the curb.

Strategies for Conquering Back-to-School Anxiety:

1. Prepare Ahead: Knowing what’s coming can be a game-changer. Be organized- Get your school supplies, organize your backpack, and plan your outfits in advance. This will give you one less thing to worry about.
2. Talk It Out: Don’t keep those feelings inside. Talk to friends, family, or trusted adults about what’s on your mind or what’s bothering you. You’ll be surprised how many people have felt the same way.
3. Set Achievable Goals: Don’t expect perfection from the start. Set achievable goals, and celebrate your progress along the way. You are more likely to continue when you see progression in your dreams. 
4. Breathe and Mindfulness: Take some deep breaths when you feel overwhelmed. Stop anxiety before it starts creeping in. Consider practicing mindfulness techniques to help you stay grounded and focused. Taking time to breathe makes you feel less stressed because it gives your mind time to relax and rethink.
5. Eating well & staying healthy: Eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying active can improve your mood and overall well-being. Take time to eat snacks like fruits or cut-up veggies; eating healthy provides your body the energy to finish what you need that day. 
6. Stay Positive: Stop overworrying. Instead of worrying about what might go wrong, consider all the exciting things that await you this school year, like making new friends, learning interesting subjects, and remarkable experiences just around the corner! 
7. You’re Not Alone: Everyone has their version of back-to-school jitters. You’re part of a considerable community of teens going through this together. It’s hard enough to be a person in this decade because of all the changes and uncertainties. Lean on each other for support.
8. Ask for Help When You Needed: If anxiety becomes too overwhelming, don’t hesitate to talk to your school counselor or a mental health professional. They’re there to help you navigate these feelings. These individuals have training and experiences to help you navigate your uncertainty and bring them into clear focus. So don’t hesitate to ask. 

So there you have it! Back-to-school anxiety is normal, but you have a toolkit with many strategies to handle it like a pro. Remember, you’re stronger and more capable than you think. Embrace the new school year with confidence to be true to yourself and shine! ✨✨

You got this!

Bella H.