Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or the start of a college semester, back-to-school anxiety is real—and common. For many kids, teens, and even adults, the transition from summer to school comes with big emotions: stress, fear, overwhelm, or even physical symptoms like stomachaches or trouble sleeping.

Understanding the root of school anxiety and learning how to manage it can help students start the school year feeling more prepared, supported, and confident.

What Causes Back-to-School Anxiety?

Back-to-school anxiety can stem from a variety of fears and transitions:

• Fear of the unknown (new teachers, new classmates, new routines)
• Separation anxiety (especially for younger children)
• Academic pressure and fear of failure
• Social anxiety or fear of bullying
• Adjustment issues for kids changing schools or entering middle/high school
• Transitioning to college or returning after a break

For students who already struggle with generalized anxiety or have a history of trauma or learning difficulties, these stressors can feel even more intense.

Signs Your Child or Teen May Be Struggling with School Anxiety

School anxiety doesn’t always look like a meltdown. Here are some subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs:

• Frequent headaches or stomachaches with no medical cause
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Refusing to go to school or complaining every morning
• Irritability, tearfulness, or mood swings
• Withdrawal from friends or activities
• Perfectionism or fear of making mistakes

How to Help Kids and Teens Manage Back-to-School Anxiety

1. Normalize the Feeling

Let your child know that it’s normal to feel nervous about a new school year. Share your own stories and remind them that many other students feel the same way.

2. Create Predictability

Practice the morning and evening routine before school starts. Visit the school if possible. Predictability helps ease anxiety by reducing the fear of the unknown.

3. Encourage Emotional Expression

Give your child space to talk about what they’re feeling without minimizing it. Validate their experience: “That sounds hard. I understand why you feel nervous.”

4. Teach Coping Skills

Practice deep breathing, grounding techniques, or use visual tools like worry jars or calm-down kits. For teens, journaling or movement (like walking) can help release stress.

5. Seek Professional Support

If school anxiety is interfering with daily life, therapy can help. A counselor can work with your child or teen to reduce anxious thoughts, build resilience, and develop self-confidence.

Back-to-School Mental Health Matters

The start of a new school year doesn’t have to be a source of dread. With the right support and strategies, students can approach school feeling more grounded, calm, and capable.

As a parent or caregiver, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Therapy can be a helpful space not only for students but also for families learning how to support them.

Get Support from a Licensed Counselor

At Darin King Counseling, we specialize in anxiety counseling for teens, young adults, and families. If your child is struggling with back-to-school stress or school-related anxiety, we’re here to help.

• 💻 Virtual sessions available across Pennsylvania
• 📍 Trauma-informed, supportive, and practical
• 📞 Call or text 724-268-0223 to get started

Let’s make this school year a fresh start—not a source of stress.