As the new school year begins, excitement often mingles with stress—especially for teens. Academic expectations, shifting social dynamics, and new routines can amplify feelings of anxiety. For parents, watching their teen struggle can be equally challenging.
Research highlights that nearly 1 in 3 adolescents will experience an anxiety disorder by age 18 (National Institute of Mental Health, 2022). Back-to-school transitions are a common trigger, as teens balance developmental changes with increasing external pressures.
Why Teens Struggle in Back-to-School Season
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Academic Pressure – Concerns about grades, tests, and performance can spark worry.
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Social Shifts – Changing peer groups or navigating friendships can create stress.
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Routine Changes – Early mornings, homework demands, and extracurriculars can disrupt balance.
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Identity Development – Adolescents are forming independence and self-image, which can intensify stress.
How Parents Can Support Teens
1. Normalize Conversations About Stress
Validating your teen’s experience (“It makes sense you feel nervous about this change”) reduces shame and encourages openness.
2. Maintain a Grounded Home Base
Keeping family routines predictable provides stability, which buffers against external stress.
3. Encourage Sleep & Screen Balance
Adequate rest is essential for emotional regulation. Encourage device-free downtime before bed.
4. Teach Stress-Relief Techniques
Deep breathing, short mindfulness practices, or somatic tools (like stretching) help teens regulate in the moment.
5. Model Healthy Coping
When parents demonstrate calm strategies for stress, teens are more likely to mirror them.
Final Thought
Back-to-school transitions don’t have to be overwhelming. With empathy, structure, and open communication, parents can help their teens not just survive but thrive through the school year ahead.
Stacey Rogers
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