Beating the Back-to-School Blues

The summer holidays might be over, but a new school year is a chance for a fresh start! Getting organised now is the best way to feel calm and confident for the term ahead. A bit of planning can save you from a lot of last-minute stress.

Acknowledge the Feeling

The first step is to simply acknowledge what you're feeling. A new school year means new challenges, different teachers, and maybe even a new environment. This can feel like a lot of pressure, especially after a couple of months of total freedom. Remember that these feelings are valid, and it’s okay to not feel 100% ready. Just accepting this can take a huge weight off your shoulders.

Tip 1: Take Control of Your Routine

Summer routines can be pretty relaxed. Getting back into a school-day schedule can be a shock to the system, so ease your way back in.

• Fix Your Sleep Schedule: In the last few days of the holidays, start going to bed and waking up a bit earlier each day. This will make it much easier to get up for the first day back.

  
  

• Get Organised: Pack your bag and lay out your uniform the night before. Having everything ready to go will make the morning feel less rushed and stressful.

  
  

• Plan Something Fun: Don't let the thought of school take over completely. Schedule a fun activity in the first week back to look forward to, like going to the cinema or meeting up with friends at the weekend.

Tip 2: Reconnect with Your Mates

One of the best things about going back to school is seeing your friends again. Thinking about reconnecting can ease some of your worries about the social side of things.

• Reach Out: Send a quick message to a few friends to say you're looking forward to seeing them.

  
  

• Make Plans: Organise to meet a friend at school on the first day or plan to sit together at lunch.

  
  

• Be Open: Don't be afraid to talk about how you're feeling. Chances are, your friends are feeling the same way.

Tip 3: Look After Your Mind and Body

When you're feeling anxious, it's important to be kind to yourself. These simple wellbeing tips can make a huge difference.

• Get Outside: A quick walk or run can clear your head and give you a boost of energy.

  
  

• Do What You Love: Make time for your hobbies, whether it's playing a video game, listening to music, or drawing.

  
  

• Talk to Someone: If the worries feel too big, talk to a parent, teacher, or trusted adult. Just sharing your thoughts can help you feel better.

Going back to school can feel daunting, but remember that it's also a chance for a fresh start. You can set new goals, learn incredible new things, and make new memories with your friends. By taking small steps to get organised and look after yourself, you can trade those back-to-school blues for a confident and positive new term.

What are your top tips for beating the back-to-school blues? Share them in the comments below!