There are some back-to-school traditions like picking out new clothes and school supplies that can be fun, but for many students the back-to-school season is filled with feelings of dread. Some students struggle with the fears of being judged by their teachers and not being accepted by their peers. This social anxiety can be crippling. However, with the right coping strategies, social anxiety is manageable. Here are 5 tips for overcoming back-to-school anxiety. 1. ADOPT HEALTHY MENTAL HEALTH HABITS AND ROUTINES Poor diet and lack of sleep can make symptoms of social anxiety worse. If your child has been staying up late and sleeping in all summer, help them get on a “back-to-school schedule.” Beginning about two weeks before classes start, have your children go to bed and wake up a little earlier each day. Provide healthy meals and encourage regular exercise as well to help stimulate them both physically and emotionally. 2. TALK ABOUT IT: DON’T BOTTLE UP SOCIAL ANXIETY Encourage your child to talk about their fears or other emotions they might be experiencing. Naming the problem (social anxiety) helps children understand why they’re anxious and makes it easier to cope. 3. ADOPTING A POSITIVE ATTITUDE INCREASES MENTAL … Continue reading 5 Tips for Dealing with Social Anxiety in School