When “Back-to-School” Anxiety Is More Than Just a Phase

The return to school after winter break can be a challenging transition for many children and adolescents. Changes in routine, academic expectations, and social dynamics often re-emerge quickly in January. While some nervousness is expected, persistent anxiety may signal that a child could benefit from additional support.

What Typical Back-to-School Anxiety Looks Like

Many children experience mild worries when returning to school, such as:

• Temporary nervousness the night before school

• 
  

• Brief reluctance to separate from caregivers

• Mild complaints of stomachaches or headaches

These reactions often improve within a few days as routines stabilize.

Signs Anxiety May Be More Than Temporary

Anxiety may warrant closer attention when it:

• Persists for several weeks

• Leads to frequent school avoidance or refusal

• Causes intense distress, meltdowns, or shutdowns

• Interferes with sleep, appetite, or daily functioning

• Results in repeated visits to the nurse or early dismissals

How Anxiety Can Show Up by Age

• Younger children may express anxiety throu

  gh physical complaints, clinginess, or emotional outbursts.

• Adolescents may show irritability, withdrawal, perfectionism, or increased avoidance of academic or social demands.

When to Consider Therapy

Therapy can help children and teens develop skills to manage anxious thoughts, regulate emotions, and build confidence during transitions. Early support can prevent anxiety from becoming more entrenched and disruptive.