Back to School

Returning to School with Mental Health in Mind

It’s that time of year again when summer is winding down and the return to school looms on the horizon. Time to buy school supplies, shop for new clothes, or at least sit down and place some online orders.

While the return to school can be an exciting time, it can also bring challenges for students of all ages. Transitioning from the relaxed pace of summer to the structure of school can be stressful, with each student experiencing this shift differently. Children may be moving from primary to elementary school, from elementary to high school, or starting a post-secondary program. For many military families, it might be a student's first time at a new school, in a new community, or even a new country. It can be especially difficult for students who experienced challenges in the previous school year or who live with learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, or other mental health disorders.

For children living with diagnosed or undiagnosed learning or mental health disorders, the school environment often presents many challenges. These students must transition from a more relaxed setting to one that requires organization, extended periods of focus, staying on task, and navigating a highly structured schedule. The return to constant social interaction—with faculty and peers—can also be emotionally taxing, especially if previous experiences were negative.

Parents of children with mental health or learning disorders also face a challenging time. Naturally, they want the transition back to school to be as smooth and stress-free as possible. The following tips can help parents and caregivers support a mentally healthy return to school:
 

1. Establish or Re-establish Routines
   Routines help children feel a sense of predictability and security—especially important when facing new experiences and changes. Don’t wait until the night before school starts to implement earlier bedtimes, wake-up calls, or screen-time limits. Gradually reintroduce familiar routines a few weeks ahead. Involving children in creating or adjusting the routine can encourage better cooperation. For example, if they help plan their bedtime routine (within reason), they’re more likely to follow it.
    

2. Have a Trial Run
   If your child is new to a community, transitioning between schools, or had difficulties the previous year, a “dry run” can help ease their anxiety. Visiting the school in advance gives them a chance to become familiar with the building, grounds, and classroom locations.
    

3. Avoid Projecting Your Anxiety
   Anxiety often runs in families. If a child sees their parent exhibiting stress about the return to school, they may also become anxious. Try to model calm and confident behaviour. Be mindful of how you ask about social connections—questions like “Have you made any friends yet?” can cause undue pressure. Instead, try neutral prompts like “How was your day?” or “Tell me three good things about your day.” These encourage open communication without feelings of shame or disappointment.
    

4. Understand Their Developing Brains
   As children grow, their brains change—especially during the teenage years. This period often includes risk-taking behaviours and the emergence of anxiety, depression, or substance use issues. It’s a vulnerable time, and open lines of communication are critical. Ask questions, but more importantly, listen. Try: “Is there anything you’re worried about?” or “What do you find stressful about going back to school?”
    

5. Promote Self-Care
   Good sleep hygiene, regular exercise, and balanced nutrition are vital for managing stress. Children who are well-rested, physically active, and eating well are better equipped to handle challenges and are more resilient.
    

Returning to school can be both exciting and exhausting for students and parents. For families navigating behavioural or mental health challenges, it may feel particularly overwhelming. Planning ahead is key to reducing stress and supporting a smooth transition.

For more resources, visit Student Mental Health Toolkit. This site provides information for parents of children in Grades 4–7 and Grades 8–12, helping families support their child’s mental health journey.

Enjoy the rest of the summer—and take time to prepare for the school year with mental wellness in mind.

- Written by Marion Hall, BSW, RSW