Back-to-school Anxiety for Children Post Lockdown

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Children, lockdown, & anxiety

As September looms, many teenagers going back to school face an added source of anxiety after spending so much time at home. Returning students have expressed worries about adjusting back to school routines, walking to class alone, and health safety post lockdown (1). Lockdown has contributed to generalised anxiety globally. However more specifically, the lack of social interactions during isolation has led to increased social anxiety within teenagers (2).

What is social anxiety?

Social anxiety is a type of anxiety disorder when everyday activities like going out in public or talking to friends become an overwhelming fear. It is one of the most common forms of anxiety in teenagers and tends to develop at around 13 years of age (3).

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Back-to-school anxiety

- Some children have expressed reduced contact with peers since the start of lockdown (4). Therefore, experience anxiousness about reintegrating with friends at school.

- Remote learning may have relived pressures such as being singled out by a teacher, learning difficulties, and bullying. Returning students must mentally readapt to those situations, finding it distressing.

- Students may be fearful of catching COVID-19 and worry about their friends and family. This leads to reduced social interactions, communication with peers and rise in anxiety.

…amongst many others.

 

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Signs that a Child is struggling

Although symptoms of anxiety vary from person to another, common symptoms are:

- Difficulty sleeping

- Feeling restless

- Difficultly concentrating

- Frequent headaches and stomach-aches

-  Avoiding schoolwork

- Not finding the pleasure in things they would usually enjoy

- Refusing to go to school

- Declining invitations to social events

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Our Advice

Advice for parents

1. Beware of general symptoms of anxiety

Read up on anxiety symptoms and be vigilant towards your teenager.

2. Validate their feelings

Instead of dismissing their fears (There’s nothing to be worried about!), acknowledge their feelings to make them feel more secure (I know how hard it can be).

3. Be available

Teens may choose an inconvenient time to open up about their feelings. Be prepared to stop and listen if you possibly can.

4.Take care of the basics

Make sure your child is getting enough sleep, exercise, and eating regular meals.

Advice for Children

1. You’re not alone!

Many children have the same fears especially during these unpreceded times.

2. Master deep breathing

Take deep breaths and count to 10 to relieve tension.

3. Practice positive self-talk

Optimism can lower stress levels

4. Reach out for help

You don’t have to suffer alone. Speaking up is an act of courage itself. There are many support options out there to help you. 

Written by: Nour Soliman (ANutr)

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