The back-to-school blues can hit hard, affecting students, parents, and teachers alike. Balancing tight schedules, academic assignments, and the daily juggle of schoolwork or carpooling can quickly lead to stress and anxiety. Learning how to identify and manage your stress can help you better handle the challenges that come with heading back to school. Here are some easy tips to incorporate into your routine to help maintain your mental well-being.
Techniques to Help Manage Stress and Anxiety
Create a Consistent Sleep Schedule:
Starting your day well-rested can significantly impact your memory and boost clear thinking, which will be useful when working on those school assignments. It is easy to let sleep slip through the cracks when life gets busy, but creating a consistent sleep schedule will leave you feeling more alert and can prevent you from feeling the back-to-school blues.
Get Some Exercise:
Regular exercise can greatly impact your mood and stress levels. Make some time to take a brisk walk between classes, take a yoga class, or lift weights at the gym. Physical activity boosts the production of endorphins—the natural chemical that improves your mood and helps ease feelings of depression and anxiety.
Choose Nourishing Foods:
Nourishing your body with the right foods can boost your brainpower and energy levels. Choose fruits and vegetables instead of processed foods and snacks that can lead to fatigue. Focus on staying hydrated, keeping healthy snacks at hand, and eating a balanced diet. By developing healthy eating habits, you’ll be able to maintain energy levels and mental clarity throughout the day, keeping you feeling your best.
Reduce Stress:
Take a look at your to-do list and assess what truly needs to be there. See if you can delegate tasks or get help to avoid overwhelming yourself. Don’t be afraid to say “no” or miss out on plans. Setting boundaries and finding a balance is essential to maintaining your mental well-being.
Develop a Mindfulness Practice:
It is easy to get caught up in the worries of the future. When you start feeling stressed, take a few moments to breathe deeply and bring yourself back to the present moment. Try to calm your busy mind by checking in with your feelings and focusing on the here and now.
Reach Out to Your Network:
Reaching out to friends and family during tough times can alleviate depression. Your support network can provide emotional comfort and help you process your feelings, which can lighten stress and make things feel more manageable.
Seek Professional Help
Managing back-to-school blues can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to guide you through difficult times. We can create a personalized approach for your unique needs and get you back to feeling your best.
Contact Bluewater Psychiatry
Contact us at Bluewater Psychiatry to discuss your treatment options and find the best approach for your individual needs.