Overcoming back-to-school anxiety with adolescent counselling in Fitzroy

For some students, adolescent counselling in Fitzroy can make the world of difference when facing the common yet challenging hurdles of back-to-school anxiety. At Reflection Psychology, we understand these concerns and are here to guide both parents and adolescents through this trying period.

Understanding anxiety in adolescents

Anxiety is a natural human response preparing us for “fight or flight” situations. It often becomes overly sensitive in adolescents, triggering undue stress over seemingly normal situations. Much like a smoke alarm reacting to burnt popcorn rather than a real fire.

In adolescents, generalised anxiety manifests through persistent worries about various aspects of life, including school performance and social interactions.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly heightened anxiety levels in young people. Disruptions in daily routines, social isolation, and the shift in educational settings have contributed to a marked increase in anxiety disorders among adolescents.

Strategies to manage back-to-school anxiety

Practice calming breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing can be an effective tool for managing anxiety. It involves inhaling for a count of four, holding the breath for four counts, and exhaling for four counts. This technique helps in calming the body’s stress response, providing a practical method for adolescents to regain control during anxious moments.

Create coping statements

To counteract worry thoughts, help adolescents develop positive affirmations that they can repeat to themselves in times of stress, such as “It’s okay to be nervous, I am safe” or “I can do my breathing and stay calm”.

Validation and support

Acknowledging and validating an adolescent’s feelings of anxiety without immediately jumping to problem-solving can be incredibly empowering. It helps them learn to regulate their emotions and develop coping mechanisms independently.

Navigating social anxiety in school settings

Social anxiety, particularly prevalent among adolescents, can manifest in various situations like interacting with peers or speaking up in class. It’s essential for parents to understand their child’s specific concerns and work together to develop strategies to face these fears. One effective approach is “braving the wave” – encouraging adolescents to face their fears and learn through experience that they can handle challenging situations.

When to consider professional counselling

If anxiety begins to significantly interfere with daily life or school performance, it may be time to seek professional help. At Reflection Psychology in Fitzroy, our specialists in minor/adolescent counselling are equipped to provide tailored support and strategies to manage and overcome back-to-school and social anxiety.

Facing back-to-school and social anxiety is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and sometimes professional guidance. At Reflection Psychology, we’re committed to supporting the mental well-being of adolescents in Fitzroy.

If your child is struggling with anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out for compassionate and expert adolescent counselling in Fitzroy . Let’s work together to make this school year a positive and fulfilling experience.