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By Vanessa Simpson, LCSW, Children’s Health | Contributor
Back-to-School Stress in the Age of COVID-19
The back-to-school period usually brings excitement; however, it is common for students to experience some level of stress or anxiety during the initial days or weeks. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has added to the stress experienced by students, parents, and teachers, making discussions around managing these feelings more essential than ever.
The 2020 school year has posed unique challenges for students, as they adapt to various new safety measures. Although these changes are vital for safety, they may also increase stress and anxiety for students, whether they are attending school in person or virtually.
Signs of Stress in Children
Children often display stress or anxiety in different ways. Parents and caregivers know their children best, so it’s crucial to watch for changes in behavior and mood, such as:
- Increased defiance or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Decreased appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Low energy levels
- Physical symptoms like nausea, muscle tension, or dizziness
- Reluctance to attend school
- Sadness or crying
If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, they may be feeling heightened anxiety about returning to school or dealing with the implications of COVID-19.
Facilitating Open Conversations
It’s vital for parents to maintain open lines of communication with their children. When parents notice signs of stress, they should address their observations in a non-judgmental manner. Such discussions offer an opportunity to normalize and validate the child’s feelings. Parents can also use this as a chance to demonstrate healthy coping strategies they utilize when facing stress or anxiety themselves.
While some stress during the back-to-school season is normal, it may be necessary to seek professional help if children show multiple or excessive signs that interfere with their academic performance or family dynamics.
Telebehavioral Health Services
In 2017, Children’s Health introduced school-based tele-behavioral health programs as part of their telehealth initiatives. This program has been successfully implemented in over 170 schools within seven districts around the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. With parental consent, children have the opportunity to participate in virtual therapy sessions with licensed behavioral health providers from their schools using a tablet. This addresses common issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and coping skills. The program represents a convenient approach to ensure students have access to expert behavioral health care. This innovative application of technology has made mental health services more accessible to numerous children and families.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Vanessa Simpson, LCSW is the Behavioral Health Care Manager at Children’s Health. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Baylor University. With over five years of experience at Children’s Health, Vanessa has worked in both the Social Work and Behavioral Health departments. Currently, she provides tele-behavioral health services to students across various school districts in North Texas. She is passionate about community outreach, mental health, and wellness. Vanessa is trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care. She aims to foster an environment of compassion and hope to assist children, teens, and families in overcoming their challenges and mental health issues.
