Pharmacist Offers Tips to Reduce Student Stress Before School Year
Translated from Lithuanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A pharmacist notes an increase in students experiencing anxiety and stress as the new school year approaches.
- Returning to a structured routine after summer break can be challenging for some children and teenagers.
- Parents are advised to communicate openly with their children, recognize signs of stress, and manage their own emotions to support their kids.
As the new school year looms, a pharmacist observes a growing number of students seeking advice on managing anxiety and stress. Vakarฤ Jokubaitytฤ-Tunkeviฤienฤ from the "Camelia" pharmacy chain notes that late August and September typically see more young patients concerned about the transition back to school.
Just like adults, some children and teenagers prefer a freer time with fewer compromises, while others thrive on planning and structure.
The shift from a relaxed summer to a structured academic routine presents challenges for many. "Just like adults, some children and teenagers prefer a freer time with fewer compromises, while others thrive on planning and structure," Jokubaitytฤ-Tunkeviฤienฤ explains. This difference means returning to a regular schedule can be easier for some than others. The pharmacist emphasizes that while routine is unavoidable during the school year, it's natural for stress and negative feelings to manifest differently and at various times for different students.
Recognizing the signs of stress is crucial. Jokubaitytฤ-Tunkeviฤienฤ points out that stress can manifest as distraction, fatigue, anxiety, or social withdrawal. Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, rapid heartbeat, appetite changes, nausea, or sleep disturbances are also common. While teenagers might be more inclined to discuss their feelings if they feel understood, some may become more withdrawn. Parents must learn to read their child's cues, knowing when to give them space while also managing their own emotions.
While teenagers might be more inclined to talk about their experiences, especially if they feel their parents understand and support them, one should not forget that in adolescence, some people become more introverted.
Parents themselves often experience stress during this period due to increased expenses, planning, and personal challenges. The pharmacist advises against transferring this parental anxiety onto children. "Children are sensitive to their parents' emotions," she states, urging parents to avoid projecting their own stress or anger. Understanding that the chaos and anxiety in both parents' and children's minds before September often stem from different causes is key to navigating this transition effectively.
Children are sensitive to their parents' emotions, so it is advised to try not to transfer your own excitement, stress, or anger.
Originally published by Delfi in Lithuanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.