With students going back to school, whether online or in person, they will be entering a completely different environment for learning. Social interactions and separateness will be redefined in the classroom and may even change throughout the semester. This month we will look at how to support students as they go Back to School, the New Way.

Here are this month’s affirmations to support your mental wellbeing. 

• I’m allowed to feel this way, even if I don’t know why.
• I will support myself and my child and we will take one step at a time.
• I am doing the best that I can with the resources and knowledge that I have. 

Many parents may be experiencing and witnessing their children worry and feel anxious from the uncertainty, and it can be expressed as changing behaviors such as insomnia, night terrors and sudden crying. Here are some ideas on how to support your child through the uncertainty:

• Parents should help their children to feel safe and secure by modeling confidence and calmness.
• Validate what they are saying to you. If needed, help them reframe their thoughts. 
• Be aware of what they are hearing from the news in the background to conversations that may bring up anxiety and worry. 

We also know that the new semester will increase parent’s involvement, responsibility and engagement in their children’s learning. 

• It’s ok to feel overwhelmed. Acknowledge those feelings.
• Communicate with your school, sign up to receive updates. Seek out information about the concerns that you have.
• For children who will be learning remotely, develop a schedule or routine and include breaks. 
• Check-in with your child on what support they need from you.
• Use outside resources such as virtual study groups or online tutors. 
• Support your mental health.

As we continue to strive for a stronger and resilient community, here are some organizations that provide information, resources, and support for you and your child. 

For free webinars on many topics to support raising children and teens, visit Operation Parent’s website. 

If you would like to learn more about mindfulness skills, CARE offers many free virtual classes for teens and parents to support you on your journey into yourself. For more resources, please visit our resource page.

If you, or someone you care about is feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others: 

• Call 911
• Visit the Disaster Distress Helpline, call 1-800-985-5990, or text TalkWithUs to 66746
• Visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline or call 1-800-799-7233 and TTY 1-800-787-3224 

For the youth, if you know you or your friends need immediate help, call Teen Lifeline. Teen Lifeline is a 24-7 crisis line for teens where teens can call or text another teen about any problems or issues they are facing. This resource is also available to parents and families for support.

• In Maricopa County: 602-248-8336 (TEEN)
• Outside Maricopa County: 1-800-248-8336 (TEEN)
• Outside Arizona/Nationally: 1-877-YOUTHLINE or 1-800-SUICIDE