Back to School Stress in Teenagers
As summer comes to a close, teenagers often find themselves navigating a complex mix of emotions about returning to school. After months of freedom and relaxation, the shift back to a structured environment can feel overwhelming. It’s completely normal to experience feelings of excitement alongside anxiety or sadness about leaving behind the carefree days of summer.
They’re going from doing things on their own schedule to being tied down by a strict school schedule. It can be tough for teenagers to adjust, but as parents, there are steps we can take to support them through this transition. First, let’s understand why back-to-school stress is so common for teenagers.
It’s a Big Transition 
As the bittersweet end of summer approaches, many teenagers face a mix of anticipation and dread about returning to school. For some, the excitement of reconnecting with friends and the familiarity of a structured environment can be a source of joy. They look forward to the routines, the sports events, and the learning opportunities that school brings. However, for others, the shift can feel honestly quite stressful. The freedom of long summer days, late mornings, and spontaneous adventures is a hard change to say goodbye to.
Especially when that goodbye makes way for homework, a teenage hierarchy, and peer pressures. For many teenagers, this is a major life shift that takes time to adjust to. Plus, the emotional impact of transitioning from the warmth of summer to the cooler embrace of fall can evoke feelings that are anything but pleasant. The shift can feel like a resonating “yuck” feeling that settles in when they think of leaving behind the carefree days.
There are Pressures that Going Back to School Brings
As the back-to-school season approaches, teenagers face increased pressure from schoolwork, exams, and studying. Some teens are also thinking about their future college plans, adding to their concerns about maintaining good grades, being diligent students, and selecting classes that will help them with their college applications. The academic pressures aren’t the only ones teenagers face. They also have to deal with friendship worries.
During the summer, it’s easier for teens to choose who they spend time with. However, when school starts, they are back in close proximity to their peers and have to navigate friendship circles and the associated drama and stress. While they may be excited to see their friends, dealing with the complexities of these relationships can be challenging. The dramatic scenarios depicted in movies about teens may seem exaggerated, but the stress and drama over who hung out with whom during the summer are real issues that many teens face.
There is a Pressure About Figuring Out Who You Are 
Over the course of their life, teens have evolved from a child into a young adult. And while they’ve no doubt been exploring their interests and developing their personality for some time now, there is something about the high school years that seems to bring this pressure to figure out who you are crashing down on them in a big way. They’re figuring out their identity—the things they like and dislike, the type of person they want to be, and their place in the world. That’s a lot of pressure to put on someone who is still learning and growing.
Why is that a big transition from summer? Summer is a break from that. Over the summer, teens are able to figure out what they like, dislike, and who they are at a leisurely pace. There are external factors of peers, at least in person, but not in a structured 7 hours of the day way. They have more control over their own time and activities. When school starts back up, all that goes out the window. It doesn’t help that now social media is heavily in the mix, and the “perfect” image that peers project only adds to the pressure of figuring out who they are.
Peer Pressure Doesn’t Help Either
Speaking of peers, they can have a huge influence on how teenagers feel about themselves and their place in the world. Whether it’s pressure to fit in with a certain group or conform to societal expectations, the opinions and actions of peers can weigh heavily on teenagers’ minds. When school starts back up, there are things that peers determine that children need to do. It could be judgment on who they hang out with, what they wear, and how they act. All that judgment can be a lot to take in for a teenager who is still trying to figure out their own identity.
With all of that, it can take a hit to their self-esteem. When teens are constantly having to think, “Do people like me?”, “What about the way I look?”, “Am I cool enough or smart enough?”, it’s no wonder they experience stress and anxiety. All of these pressures combined can create a perfect storm of stress for teenagers.
Coping Strategies for Back-to-School Stress 
With all transitions, they’re hard. Having strategies to help smooth the process can make all the difference. As parents, it’s important to recognize and acknowledge the challenges that teenagers face during back-to-school season. Here are a few strategies that can support them through this transition:
Establishing a Routine
Reintroducing a school-year routine gradually can help ease the adjustment. Start by setting consistent wake-up and sleep times a few weeks before school begins. Incorporate activities that align with school hours, such as designated homework times and relaxing breaks, to create a sense of structure and predictability.
Time Management
Teaching time management techniques can empower teens to balance their schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and personal time. Encourage the use of planners or digital calendars to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and social commitments. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can prevent feelings of overwhelm.
Seeking Support
Reminding teens of the importance of seeking support is crucial. Encourage them to reach out to friends, family, and school counselors when they feel stressed or anxious. Having open conversations about their feelings can provide comfort and reassurance. Additionally, teen counseling in Chicago and Evanston, IL can offer a safe and nonjudgmental space for teenagers to express their emotions and work through any challenges they may face. For example, a therapist for teens in Evanston and Chicago, IL can use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Chicago and Evanston, IL to help adolescents identify and change negative thought patterns that may contribute to their stress.
Mindfulness and Relaxation
Encouraging mindfulness and relaxation practices can significantly aid in stress management. Simple techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or even short walks outdoors can help maintain mental well-being. Creating a space for these activities in their daily schedule can provide teens with much-needed moments of calm amid the hustle of school life.
Transitions can be tough, especially when a new school year rolls around for teens, bringing unique challenges. Parents can make a real difference by understanding the pressures their kids face and offering support and coping strategies. It’s important to be empathetic and reassuring, letting them know it’s okay to feel overwhelmed or anxious. With patience and open communication, back-to-school stress can be easier for both teens and parents. Remember, it’s a journey of self-discovery, and it’s perfectly fine for them not to have everything figured out right away. Just being there for them, holding space, and showing love and support can help them navigate this transitional phase. This too shall pass, and they’ll emerge stronger on the other side. Good luck, and just remind them to be themselves—that’s all anyone can ask for!
Transition Out of Summer with Teen Counseling in Chicago and Evanston, IL
If back-to-school stress is affecting your teenager’s emotional well-being, teen counseling in Chicago and Evanston, IL can provide the support they need. At Evanston Counseling, we specialize in helping adolescents navigate life transitions, build self-esteem, and develop healthier coping strategies. Our therapists are experienced in working with teenagers and can tailor therapy to fit their unique needs. Whether that’s with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Chicago and Evanston, IL or other evidence-based techniques, we’re here to support your teenager’s mental health. We offer a range of online therapy options, making it easier than ever to prioritize your mental health. Let’s make this transition into the new school year a smoother one. Take the first step toward a happier, healthier teenager by following the steps below:
- Reach out to schedule a free consultation.
- Speak with an experienced teen therapist.
- Start the school year with the right support system in place!
Other Therapy Services Offered at Evanston Counseling in Evanston, Chicago, and throughout Illinois
At Evanston Counseling, our commitment extends beyond offering Teen Counseling in Chicago and Evanston, IL. We provide a range of therapy services to support you in your mental health journey. Our therapy services include Therapy for Moms, Therapy for College Students, Therapy for Young Adults, and, catering to individuals facing challenges like Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Pain and GI Distress. We embrace diverse therapeutic modalities, including Hypnotherapy, Pet Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, ensuring a personalized approach that meets the unique needs of those seeking support. Reach out to learn more about our therapy services and how we can support you or your loved ones.
