Back to School

It’s that time again…. Back to school. With most of my clients, I hear it is bittersweet. It’s exciting to go back with brand new school clothes, shoes and school supplies and/or see friends again. However, for many, it also has anxiety, depression, low motivation and/or uncertainty attached to it. Here are my tips to help get back to school.


1. Routine


We like routine. Doesn’t your teacher set a plan for the day and have rules that everyone has to follow? Yes. That’s routine. We are programmed to be in a routine. Without it, those struggling with anxiety feel out of control. So, I suggest that you start getting in a routine now, before school starts. Get in the habit of picking out your outfit the night before or maybe start waking up or going to bed at the same time. Start your routine now, instead of the first day of school.


2. Uncertainty


Don’t fight the anxiety or other moods you are feeling. They are bound to happen. Why? Because there will always be uncertainty the first day, week, or month of school. Who is my new teacher? Is she nice? Where are my classes? What if I don’t make it to class on time? Will I get in trouble? What if I don’t have the right school supplies? Accept that there will be uncertainty.


3. Everyone has a little bit of nervousness


Everyone. Let me repeat, everyone has a little bit of nervousness. Teachers, students, staff, coaches, etc. You are not alone in this… although it may feel that way. Did you know that 1 in 4 people have anxiety? That means that 25% of the class is nervous, and probably more people especially the first few days and weeks. It’s okay to talk about how nervous you may feel. You don’t have to keep it a secret. The more we open up about it, the more comfortable everyone will feel.


My Take Away….


Getting back to school is exciting and hard all at the same time. Get yourself back into a routine, even before school officially starts. Recognize that there will be some uncertainty and with uncertainty comes anxiety and nervousness. Accept the anxiety and realize that you are not alone.