As summer begins to dwindle, kids and parents alike are starting to focus on a return to school.  Commence the chaos of school clothes shopping, school supply shopping, sports physicals, open houses, and so much more.  While parents may be celebrating this transition, kids often have different feelings.

A study conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA) in 2023 found that 75% of students felt significant stress about returning to school.  This is a notable increase from 2022, when 68% of students reported similar concerns.  Sources of stress included academic pressure, social dynamics, and extracurricular commitments.

A report provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2024 indicated that of students ages 12 to 18, 40% experienced symptoms of depression and identified the return to school as a significant trigger for these symptoms.  Over the past year, there has been a 20% increase in students seeking counseling services, which reflects an increasing need for mental health support during the back-to-school transition.

A study conducted by Nemours Children’s Health found that 64% of children ages 9 to 13 are worried about returning to school.  The worries can range from academic and homework challenges to bullying, to not being invited to friend groups and parties.

The stress, depression, and anxiety kids feel about a return to school is valid.  Academics, sports, and peer interactions are difficult for kids of all ages to navigate.  Heck, these things would be difficult for adults to manage!

So…how do we support our kiddos?  Here are some things parents can do to make the return to school less stressful, less depressing, and/or less anxiety-producing for their kiddos:

• Provide structure around sleep, nutrition, and chores.
• Create a routine for homework and studying.
• Enforce screen time limits on phones, iPads, computers, and other electronic devices.
• Encourage open communication to discuss questions and concerns.
• Offer validation about your kiddo’s feelings.
• Celebrate success with your kiddo.
• Seek help from mental health professionals if your kiddo’s stress, depression, and/or anxiety interfere with daily life.

Now that you how going back to school can impact your kiddo, please know that True North Psychiatry™ is here to help support you and your kiddo! True North Psychiatry™ specializes in assessing mental illness symptoms, making accurate diagnoses, and creating evidence-based treatment plans, including medications, to manage your symptoms. So…what are you waiting for?! There is no better time than now to take control of your path, or your kiddo’s path, and begin moving in the direction of who you both are at your deepest points …your True North™.