SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) — Going back to school is exciting for many kids, but it can also be stressful for some.
Mental health experts like Allison Chamberlin, inpatient child and adolescent psychiatry unit manager at CoxHealth, say parents need to know what their children are going through.
“Going back to school can be a really exciting time, but it can also cause a lot of anxiety for some kids, so it’s really important for parents to know what signs to look out for, because we know kids are struggling with going back to school,” Chamberlain said.
There are several factors that can make it difficult for your child to return to school.
“Going back to school in itself can be really hard for kids, just getting back into a routine. They may be starting a new school, trying to make new friends, new courses, thinking about their future and trying to fit that into the classes they’ve chosen, things like that,” Chamberlain said.
Chamberlain says it’s important to look for signs that your child is in distress.
“Parents might notice that their child was really interested in a particular sport, peer group or school activity and then suddenly loses interest. They might notice a change in sleep patterns. They might notice a change in appetite. Some kids who are very anxious may even show this in physical ways, so they might complain of more headaches or stomach aches than usual,” Chamberlain said.
Chamberlin says it’s important to communicate openly with your children so they know they can talk to you.
“It’s really important for kids to know that you can have an open and honest dialogue with them, know what their standards are and that it’s okay to come to them with any concerns you may have,” Chamberlain said.
Chamberlin also says it’s okay to ask for help if necessary: Your pediatrician can provide your child with behavioral therapy or medication if needed.
“Every child is different, but if parents notice changes or anxiety in their child, or if their child expresses distress to them, it’s a good idea to reach out to their family doctor or pediatrician, who can help with local resources and provide referrals if further care is needed,” Chamberlain says.
Remember, if you are in trouble you can always call or text the National Suicide Hotline at 988.
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