School has been in session for more than a month, with many students already feeling the pressure to succeed, whether that be in the classroom or on the fields. It’s at this point that mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, fear of school, school refusal and social anxiety can start to present themselves, if they haven’t already.
As parents of teens and adolescence, it’s important that you’re equipped with the tools you need to help your child navigate these challenges. Not sure where to start? Here are our tips for navigating mental health with teens when they’re back in school.
Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
You will see this as a top tip on many parenting websites, but we cannot stress enough how important communication is when it comes to teens and their mental health. When starting these conversations, keep in mind that your child may not be receptive from the beginning and may feel as though they are being interrogated. Begin slowly by using language such as “I noticed” or simply asking them how their day went. Once they get talking, avoid multitasking, make eye contact and have open body language. Actively listening will ensure that your teen is and feels heard and will likely encourage them to begin similar conversations with you when they encounter challenges throughout the year.
Create Routines
Kids, like adults, thrive on routines. Consistency fosters a sense of security for students that allows them to relax and feel more at-ease even when times are tough. This is not a one-shoe-fits-all approach, as every child and parent is different. We recommend following a routine that helps your student manage their time, creating a balance between school, extracurriculars, familial responsibilities and socialization. You might also consider incorporating self-care into their routine, like exercise and breathing techniques. Lastly, make sure your teen is getting adequate sleep by helping them create healthy sleeping habits, which include reducing caffeine intake and technology use in the evenings.
Encourage Passion Projects & Hobbies
Often, teens can begin to feel overwhelmed when they are back at school because they don’t have as much time to pursue the things they are passionate about or activities they enjoy. Create space for them to spend time doing things they are passionate about on the weekends and after school. Look at their schedules and help them manage their time efficiently so they have the hours they need to do what they love.
Explore Resources
Sometimes, mental health challenges can be too much for a parent to handle alone. If that’s the case, there is no shame in exploring what’s out there to give your child what they need. At NSAJC, our behavioral therapists are well-equipped to help teens and their families navigate their mental health. Learn more about our services and physicians to determine if we are a right fit for you. Other options include online therapy, scheduling sessions with your school counselor and booking a consultation with a psychiatrist if you believe medication may be necessary.
