Going back to school in communities across Canada is different for everyone. As COVID-19 health and safety guidelines continue / change, so may your feelings about your safety, education, interests, friends and other things going on in your life… Here, Kids Help Phone shares 50+ wellness resources for you to use as you navigate your feelings about school throughout the year.
Kids Help Phone is hearing from youth that they’re feeling a lot of emotions about going back to school. They may be experiencing:
- anxiety about going back to school in-person
- anxiety about starting at a new school (particularly for newcomers)
- bullying / abuse
- burnout (video from CBC Kids News)
- difficulty finding resources for clothes and other supplies
- excitement about sports and extracurricular activities
- fear of failing / falling behind / being left out
- joy at seeing old friends / making new friends
- optimism about being back in class
- separation anxiety
- stress about relocating for school (especially in remote communities)
- systemic racism
- and more
We want to let you know that however you’re feeling about going back to school this year, you’re not alone, especially as you think about what school may be / is like for you. We also want to remind you that it’s common to feel more stress during new, uncertain or difficult times. It’s important to be kind to yourself (downloadable tips from School Mental Health Ontario), and remember that if intense emotions are taking over your life / causing other concerns for you, you can reach out and get support if / when you need it.
Students across Canada can explore the following wellness tips, tools and resources for:
No matter how you’re feeling about going back to school, you’re not alone. Reaching out and talking to someone about your feelings and situation is the first step to feeling better. We’re here to help during this time (and always)!
If you’re an adult seeking ways to support a young person in your life with back to school, you can check out these 3 tips or visit our resources for caring adults.
