Back to School Mental Health Tips

Back to School Mental Health Tips

Sep 08, 2020

School-Based Mental Health, Counseling, Family Counseling

As we begin the new academic year, parents, students, teachers, and school staff are faced with uncertainty and worry.  Whether you are starting school in-person, online, or in a hybrid model, there are added challenges that can affect your mental health. Here are some tips from our clinicians on how to support your mental health during this challenging time.

In-Person Learning

Fear/Anxiety Surrounding Contracting COVID-19 – Keep following the good measures that you have been practicing to keep safe (wash hands, wear a mask,socially distance). Limit the information you receive. Too much news can be overwhelming, only take in what is needed from trusted sources. Also, sticking to routine (which includes some time for fun) and maintaining healthy behaviors such as getting enough sleep and eating healthy is important.

Online Virtual Learning

Increased Screen Time – Time staring at a screen is not good for our mental or physical health. However, increased screen time is a necessity for online learning. Set boundaries regarding screen time, such as no screen usage 2 hours before bed or for every one hour of screen time, get 10 minutes of physical activity.

Isolation/Peer-to-Peer Interactions – Keeping relationships with friends and family is so important while we socially distance. They are your support systems and even small interactions can help to combat feelings of isolation/loneliness.Stay connected virtually by planning an online game night, or after school homework session.

Hybrid Model (part in-person, part online)

Routine Changes – Routine is so important to good mental health. Having established bed time and wake times will help you to sleep better and have more energy throughout the day. Keeping the same routine both when you are doing online and in-person learning will help your mental health immensely.

Coping with Change – Going from time together in school to online classes can be hard. Acknowledge this challenge and talk with a trusted person about your feelings surrounding these changes.

FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy can help to support the mental health of individuals and families no matter what challenges the new school year brings.

  

Did you know that FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy provides school-based mental health services in 5 school districts on both sides of the St. Croix River?

Stillwater 834  | North St. Paul/Maplewood/Oak Dale 622  |  Hudson  |  New Richmond  | Prescott

 

Supporting the mental health of students is more important now than ever before.

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