When back to school anxiety becomes a problem

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – It’s normal for kids to feel a little nervous right now with the prospect of a new teacher, new classmates and a brand new school year just ahead, but when do rising anxiety levels become a real problem?

The head of psychiatry at BC Children’s Hospital has some warnings and advice for parents as they get their students ready for class.

“Naturally, anxiety increases for many children at this time of year but, for some, it can increase to levels that really interfere with their availability to go to school or stay at school, and that can become more concerning,” says Dr. Jana Davidson, the hospital’s Psychiatrist-in-Chief.

“For many children, it’s the fear of the unknown — worrying about who their teacher will be, if there will be friends in the classroom, what the work will be like. Those would be the typical concerns,” she says.

It’s when those concerns become overwhelming that problems can start. If a child always tries to stay home, refuses to eat or go the bathroom in public, constantly worries or seeks reassurance and raises complaints about mysterious pains or difficulty breathing, it may be time to talk to a doctor.

However, there are many steps a parent can take to also reduce anxiety levels as students head back to class.

“The most important thing is to begin getting your child back into a routine now, including a regular bedtime,” says Dr. Davidson.

“Start to talk about the fun and positive things that will happen at school and start to plan snacks and lunches. We know that children who get enough sleep and eat properly through the day manage anxiety and stress much better.”

For kids who are particularly anxious, she recommends gradually exposing them to school in fun ways before classes start.

“Go spend some positive time in the playground. It can be quite helpful.”

It can also help to talk to children about their feelings, helping them identify what they are experiencing, whether it is nervousness, intimidation or shyness. But Dr. Davdson says parents have to remain calm themselves.

“If a child is anxious and the parent is also anxious, the child becomes even more anxious. It ends up being a vicious cycle. The more prepared a parent can be, the calmer they’ll be and that will have a really positive effect on their child.”

If stress or anxiety levels rise to the point they significantly interfere with a child’s school, home and social life, Davidson says parents should consider getting assistance.

“The good news is that help is available. They can go to their family doctor or they contact the local child and youth mental health team in their community and get resources.” 

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today