Returning back to school can be a challenging time, whether you are returning to elementary school, middle school, high school or post-secondary. This transition can be difficult for caregivers as well. Settling back into old routines, preparing for the school year workload, and possible anxieties attached to being back at school can make it difficult. There are many different strategies to use for dealing with the stress of returning to school such as:

1. Self-Soothing Techniques

To self soothe yourself when you are feeling anxious, is being aware of your five senses: touch, taste, smell, sight, and sound. Having a fidget toy, tasting a yummy snack you enjoy, aromatherapy, watching a show you enjoy, and listening to music you enjoy can be ways to soothe yourself when feeling anxious about returning to school, opposed to being consumed with anxiety. These techniques can make it easier to think positively about school when feeling anxious.

2. Effective Relaxation Techniques

By spending time with yourself, you may get to know what makes you feel relaxed. It may be spending time in nature, taking a warm bath, yoga, and much more. Finding out what forms of relaxation work best for you will help you feel more relaxed in a time of stress. Knowing how to relax and finding out which relaxation techniques are the most effective for you, can help alleviate some of your stress/help you be able to manage your stress better.

3. Prioritize Self-Care

Ensuring your prioritizing yourself is important to maintain your best self. Prioritizing self-care can look like, setting and sticking to boundaries you have set, making time in your schedule to do activities you enjoy, and making time in your schedule to spend with your loved ones who fill your cup.

In addition, staying organized (owning a calendar, writing due dates out, etc.) seeking support from friends, family, school counsellors, exercising and eating healthy can help manage stress.