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As the new school year begins, many families and individuals are juggling busy schedules, new routines, and the emotional shifts that come with change. It’s a time of excitement and possibility, but for some, it can also bring added anxiety and stress. In this edition, we’ll explore how back-to-school transitions can affect mental health, share quick in-the-moment techniques to stay calm, and offer practical ways employers can support staff—and their teams—during this period.
Understanding the impact of change on mental health
New schedules, rides, and responsibilities: Shifting routines can disrupt sleep, meals, and downtime, all of which influence mood and resilience.
Academic and social pressures: Juggling coursework, friendships, and expectations can heighten worry and self-criticism.
Separation and transitions: For students, moving to a new class or school can trigger nerves; for adults, returning to in-person work after a break can stir similar feelings.
The hopeful flipside: Change also brings opportunities for growth, new connections, and a renewed sense of purpose when met with supportive routines and coping strategies.
In-the-moment techniques to feel calmer
Grounding 60 seconds: Name five things you can see, four you can feel, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This anchors you in the present.
Box breathing: Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 6, pause for 2. Repeat 4 times to reduce arousal.
Temperature shift: Splash cold water on the wrists or take a quick cool shower to signal the body to downshift.
Micro-movement reset: Stand up, stretch, or do 10 gentle squats to release tension and reset your nervous system.
Reset your environment: If a moment feels overwhelming, step to a quieter space, dim the lights, or put on calming music or white noise for a minute.
Language matters: Use gentle self-talk like, “This is stressful, and I can handle this step-by-step.”
Practical tips for families and students
Build predictable routines: Consistent bedtimes, prepared lunches, and a simple evening wind-down can improve sleep and mood.
Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours. Create a wind-down routine and limit screen time before bed.
Nourish the body: Balanced meals and snacks help stabilize mood and energy.
Create a school-home “calm kit”: Include a small fidget, a note of encouragement, a favorite breathing exercise card, and a plan for a quick break when overwhelmed.
Check in regularly: A brief daily check-in with kids and teens about how their day felt can prevent worries from growing into bigger concerns.
Seek support early: If anxiety or stress feels persistent or interfering with daily life, consider speaking with a school counselor, GP, or mental health professional.
How employers can support teams during back-to-school season
Normalize and validate feelings: Acknowledge that back-to-school transitions can be stressful for parents, caregivers, and students among staff.
Flexible scheduling: Offer flexible start times, compressed work weeks, or remote options where possible to accommodate school runs, therapies, or appointments.
Quiet spaces and predictable days: Provide a quiet room for breaks and consider keeping a predictable, consistent schedule during the first weeks of term to reduce uncertainty.
Mental health literacy and training: Provide MHFA-style training or mental health awareness resources so managers and colleagues can respond with care.
Clear communication channels: Share a simple plan for the season—what to expect, where to find resources (EAPs, counselling, well-being apps), and how to request accommodations.
Family-friendly benefits: Consider support like dependent care resources, school holiday coverage, or stipends for back-to-school supplies—demonstrating that you value employees’ whole lives.
Manager check-ins: Encourage brief, regular one-on-one check-ins to discuss workload, stress levels, and available supports.
Access to resources: Promote quick access to wellbeing apps, counselling services, and stress-management workshops.
Lead by example: Leaders who model work-life balance and self-care set a tone that helps reduce stigma around mental health needs.
A reminder: creating a supportive culture takes small, consistent steps
Start with listening: Create safe spaces where colleagues feel heard without judgment.
Offer practical choices: Provide options (flex time, lightened workloads, optional remote days) so people can choose what works best for them.
Follow through: When a support option is offered, ensure it’s accessible, timely, and confidential.
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Wishing you a calm, connected start to the school year.
Warmly Christina
For further inquiries, company group training or mental health consultancy please do not hesitate to get in touch at [email protected]