Every mom of young children understands what the back-to-school season could entail. Perhaps, after enjoying a flexible routine this past holiday, conforming to the school season’s regimen could pull a plug on your mental health. You’re not alone. Getting your kids back into school mode isn’t all peaches and ice cream. From anxiety to stress and everything in between, school season is one heck of a ride. In this article, we’ll explore some back-to-school mental health tips to help you navigate this period without losing your mind.
There are ways to manage your emotions and time, thus safeguarding your mental health during this hectic period. This is important as the typical mommy is known for putting the needs of others before hers. If you’re not careful, your tank may be empty and you may end up running yourself into a wall. Remember, looking out for yourself is not selfish, because a happy mommy is a happy home.
Check out these back-to-school mental health tips for moms…
#1. Be devoted to self-care
Moms often put themselves last, but it’s essential to prioritize self-care during the back-to-school season. Stress can accumulate as you juggle schedules, homework, and extracurricular activities. Set aside time daily for activities you enjoy, even if it’s just 15 minutes of reading, meditating, or taking a walk. Also, create a morning or nighttime routine that helps you recharge. This might include a relaxing bath, journaling, or yoga. Don’t forget to set boundaries and communicate your needs with family members to prevent burnout.
#2. Plan ahead and manage expectations
Being organized reduces stress. Feeling overwhelmed can lead to anxiety and impact mental health. Preparation helps you feel in control of the situation. Therefore, start school prep early. Buy supplies, organize the home, and plan lunches to avoid last-minute chaos. Create a family calendar for school events, after-school activities, and homework deadlines. Plan for “emergencies” like forgotten lunches or missed homework by having backups or emergency snack packs ready.
The start of a new school year can come with high expectations. As moms, you may feel pressure for everything to go perfectly, but it’s important to accept that some things will be out of your control. Let go of the idea of perfection. Mistakes will happen, and that’s okay. Focus on flexibility and problem-solving rather than getting everything “right.” View challenges as learning opportunities for both you and your children. Avoid comparing your family or children’s progress to others. Each child’s journey is unique, and so is your family’s dynamic.
#3. Be there for the kids
You can arm yourself with all the back-to-school mental health tips but if your babies are not feeling up to it, you won’t either. The kids may feel nervous or anxious about returning to school, especially after summer break. Ensuring you have an open line of communication fosters emotional support for them and allows you to identify any potential issues early. Set aside time each day (like during dinner or before bed) to talk with your child about their day and how they’re feeling.
Encourage them to express any fears or concerns they may have, and listen without judgment. Normalize talking about mental health. Let your children know it’s okay to feel stressed or anxious and work together to find coping mechanisms, like deep breathing exercises.
#4. Leverage a support system
The back-to-school season can feel isolating, but having a support network of other moms going through the same experiences can be comforting. Join school-related social groups, parent organizations, or online communities where moms share advice and support. Reach out to a friend for a regular coffee date or walk to decompress and talk about any challenges you’re facing. Don’t be afraid to lean on others. Whether it’s carpooling or sharing ideas for lunch, mom friends can help lighten the load.
Many moms experience guilt when balancing work, home life, and their own needs, especially during the back-to-school period. Recognizing and addressing this guilt is essential for maintaining a positive mental state. When you speak with other empathetic moms, it’s easy to acknowledge that you’re doing your best and that no one is perfect. Give yourself permission to prioritize your mental well-being without guilt. It becomes easier to replace thoughts like “I’m not doing enough” with “I’m doing my best, and that’s enough.” Allow yourself to ask for help or delegate responsibilities without feeling like you’re failing. This can be empowering for both you and your family.
#5. Let the routine sit just right
Transitioning from a relaxed summer schedule to a structured school routine can be challenging for both moms and children. A well-balanced routine promotes mental health and reduces chaos. Set a family routine that includes time for homework, meals, family bonding, and relaxation. Consistency provides a sense of stability for everyone. Wake up earlier to give yourself some personal time before the demands of the day begin. This might be used for self-care, exercising, praying, or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee. Incorporate breaks into your day, even if it’s just 5-10 minutes to breathe or stretch between tasks.
Also, note that overscheduling both your child and yourself can lead to stress and burnout. Too many activities may leave little time for relaxation and family bonding, which can negatively impact mental health. Set realistic expectations for extracurricular activities. It’s okay to say “no” to certain commitments that may overwhelm you or your child. Ensure your child has downtime and opportunities to relax and play, which is vital for their mind. Keep your own schedule manageable. Don’t feel pressured to volunteer for every school event or meeting if it adds unnecessary stress.
#6. Check in on your mind
Stress can sometimes trigger anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. Hence the reason to be particular about these back-to-school mental health tips to keep you afloat. Being aware of your mental health is vital to ensure you can take care of both yourself and your family. Recognize the signs of stress and burnout, such as irritability, fatigue, or feeling overwhelmed. Don’t hesitate to seek professional support if needed. Practice mindfulness techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling to help manage daily stress. You can also consider therapy or counseling, whether individually or with your family if the stress becomes too overwhelming to handle alone.
#7. Make gratitude a lifestyle
The back-to-school season is full of challenges, but it’s also full of successes. Celebrating small victories can uplift your mood and help you focus on the positives. Acknowledge the small wins, like making it through the first week of school or successfully sticking to a routine. Create a gratitude journal where you note one positive thing each day. This helps shift your mindset toward the good things happening, even during stressful times. Plus, reward yourself and your family with small treats or fun activities after big milestones, like a successful parent-teacher meeting or a great test score.
Featured image: Drazen Zigic/iStock
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All content found on the StyleRave.com website, including text, images, audio, video, and other formats is created for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor, go to the nearest hospital, or call 911 immediately depending on your condition.
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