The start of a new school year can be a time of excitement, but for many students, it also brings a significant amount of anxiety. The pressure to succeed, social expectations, and new routines can feel overwhelming. At The Anxiety Center, we believe that with the right tools and support, you can navigate this transition with greater ease and confidence. This article provides some professional tips to help you manage back-to-school anxiety and prepare for a successful academic year.
Tips for Going Back To School & Managing Anxiety
Mindfulness: Anchor Yourself
Mindfulness is a powerful tool for staying grounded in the present moment, a key component of the "BOLD Living Skills" taught in our Adolescent Program. When anxiety arises, your mind can race with "what if" scenarios. To counteract this, take a moment to breathe deeply and focus on your senses. A simple exercise is to name five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This technique can help shift your focus away from anxious thoughts and back to the present.
Communicate and Build Your Support System
You don’t have to face this alone. Openly communicating your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or teacher is crucial. Your support system can offer encouragement and help you problem-solve. Our practice is built on the principle of partnership, ensuring that you do not have to travel this path alone. Having a safe space to express your concerns can significantly reduce the weight of your anxiety.
Create a Routine and Manage Expectations
Structure and predictability are powerful allies against anxiety. Establish a consistent daily routine that includes time for homework, hobbies, and relaxation. This can make the transition back to school feel less jarring. Additionally, set realistic expectations for yourself. Not every day will be perfect, and that's okay. Focus on what you can control, like your effort and your attitude, and celebrate small victories.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
Sometimes, anxiety can become so intense that it interferes with daily life. If you find yourself struggling with persistent worry, panic attacks, or difficulty engaging in school activities, it may be time to seek professional help. The Anxiety Center specializes in using evidence-based treatments like ACT and DBT to help adolescents and adults address these challenges. Our programs are designed to teach you to accept anxiety, choose to move beyond it, and take action. With 97% of clients reporting a reduction in anxiety, we are confident in our ability to help you find hope and restore wholeness.
Hope Starts Here!
If you or your child are struggling with back-to-school anxiety, we are here to help. Our compassionate and highly-trained counselors will partner with you on your journey. It's time to start living again. Contact us today at 913-768-6606 or email us at info@anxietycenterkc.com to schedule a consultation.