Anxious about returning to school?

Here are 7 tips to begin school with more confidence.

Happy 2022! 🥳

May this year be the year that I want and need it to be.

Unfortunately the pandemic is still ongoing and we all have lived through nearly two years of uncertainty.

New beginnings, like a new year or even returning to school or our jobs after an extended break can also spark intense feelings of uncertainty, which for some of us, understandably so, may turn into worry and anxiety.

If you or your child is worried about returning to school below are 7 tips to begin school again with more confidence.

Photo by Alexandr Podvalny from Pexels

1. Planning
   At the root of nervousness about new beginnings is uncertainty. The most practical way to counteract this feeling is by creating as much certainty as you possibly can.
   Get ready to return to school by planning your week. Look at your timetable and prepare for lessons and homework. Don’t forget to schedule some downtime, relaxation and fun activities too!
2. Organisation
   When you plan for your week make sure you check that you have all the equipment that you need accessible and ready, such as school books, a complete pencil case and also lucky charms, your favourite snacks, fidget toys or anything else. This can help boost your confidence and reduce stress.
3. Help
   No one can alway be perfect and do everything by themselves! It’s ok to ask for help from friends, teachers or parents.
4. Problem solving
   If you encounter a problem (like we all do from time to time) and you can’t seem to think of a solution ask someone else if they have any ideas and write a big list of possible solutions. Ask yourself, if my best friend came to me with the exact same problem what would I tell them?
5. Goals
   What are do you want and what do you need from this upcoming week? If thinking about the entire week is to difficult only think about the next day. If all you need is to manage to go to school and to be present that’s ok. Set your self realistic goals and remember to be kind to yourself.
6. Calm and breathe
   The hustle and bustle of everyone returning to school can be a lot! When you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed try to slow down. Try to find a quiet space where you can be kind to yourself and take a couple of deep breaths. This will help your nervous system to calm down and feel more relaxed.
7. Kindness
   Most importantly — Be kind to yourself, be patient with yourself! Take it easy. There will always be a new day, a new opportunity and you don’t have to do everything at once.

I hope that some of these tips help!

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or feedback!

Lukas Dressler Psychotherapy.plus

Lukas Dressler (he/him)
Psychologist (MSc.)
Integrative Psychotherapist (MBACP)
for Children and Young People
Psychotherapy.plus