As August winds down, parents, children, and teens are beginning to turn their attention toward the start of the school year. Getting back into a routine has its benefits, but for many, this time of transition feels overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you keep your mind and body healthy as the school year approaches.
• Become aware of your stressors. Everyone has things that will cause them to feel stressed, especially during transitions. This time of year might mean returning to work after a vacation, a more hectic morning routine, new teachers and classmates, homework, and changes in sunlight and temperature. Adjusting to these changes is more difficult for some than others. Pay attention to what tends to cause you and your children to feel stressed out.
Here is a list of examples of certain stressors specific to different ages of children, taken from the American Psychological Association:
Pre-K through Grade School:
Separation Anxiety
Learning Disorders
Social Issues
Middle School:
Bullying,
Cliques & Peer Pressure
Academic Pressures
Physical Experimentation
High School:
Sex,
Drugs & Alcohol
Depression & Anxiety
Eating Disorders
College Concerns
Awareness of possible stressors can help you prepare to cope with them, as well as to do what is in your control to minimize their impact on your stress level. In addition, accepting the presence of stressors that are more or less beyond your control (such as the start of school) may even reduce your stress level.
• Communicate with your children. Ask your children about their expectations as the beginning of the school year approaches. You can bring it up informally when shopping for school supplies, in the car, or when eating dinner. Be aware of their cues that signal that there's something on their minds. Try to stay involved in their school life and be aware of their daily routine. Brainstorm with your children some possible ways to face each of the issues that concern them. If your children are prepared to deal with difficult circumstances ahead of time, and if they are used to and comfortable talking with you about their concerns, there will be fewer problems and worry when they arise.
• Nurture yourself. Some children might act up when they are feeling overwhelmed. Adults may cope with their stress by smoking, drinking, or eating poorly. These strategies can make you feel better in the short-term, but they can also make you feel worse in the long run. Try getting into the habit of coping with stress in healthy ways. Some of examples of these are exercise, restful sleep, a well-balanced diet, meditation, and peaceful time alone. For some people, stress may lead to irritability, anxiety, or depression. If your stress level is making it difficult for you to feel happy or connect with the people who you care about, or if it is interfering with your day-to-day functioning, you might consider talking with a psychotherapist. Taking care of yourself helps you to take care of others.
For more information go to www.pghhealthandhealing.com or to schedule an appointment, contact Leslie Stein-Aronson at (412) 335-0334 Leslie is a participating provider for a variety of health insurance plans. Talk with Leslie to find out whether her services can be either fully or partially reimbursed to you by your health plan.