Phew, summer is over! Already?! As the new school year kicks into high gear, many

students find themselves grappling with stress. Whether it’s the pressure to excel

academically, the balancing act between school and extracurricular activities, or the

social dynamics of school life, stress can take a toll on both mental and physical well-

being. As a therapist, I've seen firsthand how school stress can impact students and

families. Here’s a guide to understanding and managing school-related stress.

Understanding when stress is becoming overwhelming is the first step in managing it.

Common signs of school stress include:

Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomachaches, or frequent illnesses.

Emotional Changes: Increased irritability, anxiety, or mood swings.

Behavioral Indicators: Changes in sleep patterns, loss of interest in activities, or

withdrawal from friends and family.

Academic Performance: Decline in grades or difficulty concentrating.

One of the biggest sources of stress for children is managing their time effectively.

Helping students develop strong time management skills can significantly reduce their

stress levels. Consider these strategies:

Create a Schedule: Use planners or digital calendars to map out assignments, tests,

and activities.

Prioritize Tasks: Break assignments into smaller, manageable tasks and prioritize them

based on deadlines and importance.

Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for each study session or day, avoiding

overloading.

Having a support system can make a huge difference in how students manage stress.

Encourage students to:

Communicate: Talk openly with parents, teachers, or counselors about their feelings

and concerns.

Seek Support: Join study groups, participate in school clubs, or connect with peers

who understand their challenges.

Maintain Connections: Regularly spend time with friends and family to maintain a

sense of normalcy and support.

It’s important for students to have healthy ways to cope with stress. Some effective
coping strategies include:
Exercise: Physical activity can reduce stress and improve mood. Encourage students
to find a sport or activity they enjoy.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as deep breathing,
meditation, or yoga can help manage anxiety and promote relaxation.
Hobbies: Engaging in activities they enjoy can provide a mental break and reduce
stress levels.

A positive mindset can greatly impact how students handle stress. Encourage them to:
Practice Self-Compassion: Remind them that it’s okay to make mistakes and that
perfection is not the goal.
Celebrate Achievements: Recognize and celebrate both small and large
accomplishments to build confidence and motivation.
Challenge Negative Thoughts: Help students reframe negative thoughts and focus on
their strengths and progress.

Sometimes, stress can become overwhelming and impact a student’s daily functioning.
If stress leads to significant anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, it may
be beneficial to seek help from a mental health professional. Therapy can provide tools
and strategies to manage stress effectively and address underlying issues.

School stress is a common challenge that many students face, but with the right tools
and support, it can be managed effectively.
Remember, managing stress is not just about getting through the school year; it's about
learning valuable skills that will benefit students throughout their lives. Building
resilience as a child can be life changing.