Back to School with Emotional Balance: Supporting Our Kids Every Step of the Way
Going back to school can be an exciting time, but it also presents a significant emotional challenge for many children and teens.
Anxiety, academic pressure, social changes, and the urge to fit in are just some of the concerns that can affect their well-being.
In Massachusetts, a 2024 report from the Department of Public Health revealed that 1 in 3 high school students reported symptoms of persistent depression.
And over 40% said they frequently felt stressed during the school year.
According to Mental Health America (MHA), 1 in 5 young people between 12 and 18 years old lives with a mental health condition.
These figures underscore the importance of placing mental health at the center of the back-to-school conversation.
As a community—parents, educators, and organizations—we must support our youth through this process and ensure they feel supported, heard, and emotionally prepared for a new school year.
Warning Signs We Should Not Ignore
During the back-to-school season, pay close attention to any changes in your child’s behavior.
Some common signs that could indicate emotional difficulties include:
- Changes in appetite or sleep.
- Social withdrawal or loss of interest in favorite activities.
- Frequent physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches without an apparent cause.
- Sudden mood swings, irritability, or frequent crying.
- A sudden drop in school performance.
If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s important to talk to your child empathetically and seek professional support if necessary.
Practical Tips for Parents and Caregivers
- Create a stable routine: Sleeping and eating at regular times helps reduce stress. Including time for rest and play is also key.
- Talk openly about emotions: Encourage your children to express how they feel. Avoid minimizing their concerns and validate their emotions.
- Get to know the school environment: Establish communication with teachers and counselors. Ask if the school has social-emotional support programs.
- Avoid over-demanding: The back-to-school transition can be overwhelming. Prioritize emotional well-being over academic performance.
- Foster self-esteem: Acknowledge your children’s achievements, no matter how small, and remind them that they are doing their best.
The School’s Key Role
Schools can be safe spaces for mental health if they have trained staff, wellness programs, and an inclusive environment. It’s essential that, as parents, we participate in school meetings and ask:
- Is psychological support or access to school counselors available?
- How are cases of harassment or bullying handled?
- Does the school offer activities that promote emotional well-being?
When students feel heard, respected, and supported, they are more likely to thrive academically and socially.
Let’s Talk About Mental Health, Without Fear or Shame
Breaking the silence is the first step.
Teaching our children that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but of courage can change their lives.
Mental health is not just about illness, but about well-being, self-esteem, healthy relationships, and the ability to cope with life’s challenges.
This back-to-school season, let’s support our children with empathy, listen with our hearts, and build safe environments where they can grow up happy and healthy.
Mental Health and Back-to-School: What Parents Need to Know
Q: Why can going back to school affect my child’s mental health?
A: Going back to school involves many changes: new teachers, different routines, academic pressure, and physical and emotional shifts.
All of this can generate anxiety, fear, or frustration.
In Massachusetts, recent studies show that 37% of high school students feel sad or hopeless for several weeks of the school year.
Recognizing that this period can be stressful is the first step to providing support.
Q: How can I talk to my child about their mental health without scaring them?
A: Start with empathy and active listening. For example: “I’ve noticed you’ve been quieter lately, do you want to tell me how you’re feeling?”
Avoid judging or minimizing their emotions.
The most important thing is for your child to know they are not alone and can trust you.
Q: What if my child doesn’t want to go to school due to anxiety or fear?
A: It’s important to validate their emotions and find the cause of their distress.
Talk to their teachers or the school counselor to develop a support plan.
If the anxiety persists, consider speaking with a mental health professional specializing in children.
Q: When should I seek professional help?
A: If you notice that your child isn’t getting better over time, is socially withdrawing, expresses self-harming ideas, or has severe changes in behavior, it’s crucial to contact a therapist or doctor.
Don’t wait for the problem to worsen.
Resources in Massachusetts for Latino Families
Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line
Call 833-773-2445 for free, confidential, 24/7 support, available in Spanish.
https://myhealthfair.com/en/booths/helpline-mass/
Samaritans
Helpline for people with suicidal thoughts: 1-877-870-4673
MassSupport
Offers emotional support after stressful or traumatic events. Phone: 888-215-4920
Ferreras Counseling Center (for Latino families):
https://myhealthfair.com/en/booths/ferreras-counseling/
Health Care For All
Guides you on how to access mental health services through MassHealth. Phone: 1-800-272-4232
Through My Health Fair, you can find reliable resources in your language and connect with local organizations that support the mental health of children and adolescents.
