There's a lot of pressure on our teens as they start a new school year. Do you hear any of these concerns from your teen?

Will school feel like it used to before COVID?

How am I going to sit in classes all day when I was able to do my work when I wanted at home, even doing it in the middle of the night if I wanted?

I have no idea what I actually learned last year, will I be able to keep up this year?

What if I failed classes, will I be sitting with younger classmates and be embarrassed?

I haven't had to be in large crowds in over a year. Can I handle the cafeteria and the halls?

What if I panic? I will be so embarrassed if I have an anxiety attack!

I don't have any friends at this school, what if no one likes me?

Transitioning back into school can be tough! As a parent, you can help process their concerns by not immediately trying to fix the problem. Here's some steps that can help:

Validate: learn about and accept their feelings

Allow feelings: let them feel their feelings rather than shoving them away/avoiding or pushing down inside

Ask what they need:

"Would you like to space to process their emotions or would like you to be around for support?"

"Would like some ideas/other perspective for solving the problem?"

Transition: assist in moving to a positive activity

If you are concerned about your teen and would be interested in support with via Teen Group, please be sure you are subscribed to our newsletter for more details to come. You can also let us know you are interested by clicking here. If you believe your teen needs immediate assistance please contact us.

Upcoming:

Teens worried about health

Social Anxiety

IG: #melissamcgeelpc, #teen.strategies