Back to School, Big Emotions: Supporting Mental Health in a New School Year
The backpacks are packed.
The pencils are sharpened.
But what about the heart and mind?
As another school year begins, there’s more on the line than school supplies and schedules. For many families, back-to-school season also brings stress, anxiety, and big emotions—especially for children and teens. And often, parents feel the weight of it too.
At Rise Counseling, we know that mental health matters just as much as academic success. And the transition into a new school year is the perfect time to check in—not just on grades, but on the emotional well-being of your child… and yourself.
Why Back-to-School Can Be Emotionally Overwhelming
Even if your child is excited for a fresh start, change is still stressful. New teachers, classmates, routines, and expectations can all trigger emotional responses—especially for kids who are:
Naturally anxious or shy
Dealing with learning differences or special needs
Coping with transitions like divorce, grief, or a recent move
Recovering from trauma or previous bullying experiences
Common signs that your child may be struggling include:
Difficulty sleeping or increased fatigue
Stomachaches or headaches with no clear medical cause
Avoidance, resistance, or meltdowns before school
Changes in mood, appetite, or energy
Increased irritability, sadness, or withdrawal
These behaviors aren’t just “acting out”—they may be your child’s way of saying they’re overwhelmed.
Parents Feel It Too
Back-to-school isn’t just hard on kids. Parents often carry a quiet burden: balancing drop-offs, homework, work deadlines, emotional check-ins, and trying to be “okay” when life is moving fast.
If you’ve found yourself:
Feeling exhausted by the mental load
Anxious about your child’s academic or emotional future
Struggling to keep up with everything on your plate
—You’re not alone. We see you, and we’re here for you too.
Practical Tips to Support Mental Health This School Year
Create Emotional Space at Home
Ask open-ended questions that invite reflection. Try:
“What was the best and hardest part of your day?”
“Is there anything you’re worried about tomorrow?”Stick to a Routine—But Allow Flexibility
Predictable rhythms create safety, especially for anxious kids. But don’t be afraid to give extra grace and adjust when needed.Model Calm When You Can
Your children take their cues from you. When you manage your stress (even imperfectly), you’re showing them how to do the same.Limit Over-Scheduling
It’s okay to say “no” to one more activity. Children need time to rest, play, and process their day.Don’t Wait to Get Help
If your child—or you—are struggling to cope, don’t push through in silence. Counseling is not a last resort; it’s a supportive next step.
Rise Counseling Is Here for You
At Rise Counseling, we work with children, teens, and parents throughout the school year. Whether it’s:
Social anxiety
School refusal
Emotional outbursts
Academic pressure
Transitions at home or in the classroom
—We offer a compassionate, faith-informed space for healing and growth.
Our goal isn’t just to help kids survive the school year. We want to help them thrive. And that starts with mental and emotional well-being.
Let’s Rise into the School Year—Together
Back-to-school season is a fresh start—and that includes a fresh start for mental health. If your family needs support, we’re here to walk with you.
Because every child deserves more than a full backpack. They deserve a full heart and a healthy mind too.
Ready to get started?
Schedule a session with one of our compassionate counselors today.
