BC Children’s Hospital shares mental health tips for back-to-school transition
With school back in session, BC Children’s Hospital is encouraging families to be mindful of the impact this transition can have on mental health and well-being.
For some children, particularly those with increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, the first few months of a new school year can be a challenging and emotional time to navigate.
Last year, BC Children’s saw a 34% increase in the volume of emergency department visits of patients presenting with mental health concerns in September when compared to August. This includes symptoms such as depression, deliberate self-harm, and anxiety. Signs that a child or youth may be struggling to the point of concern include changes in eating patterns, mood swings (withdrawing or behaviour changes), having academic or social difficulties at school, having an increase in physical ailments, or sleep disruptions.
“While many children may cope with this transition without difficulty or requiring hospital care, parents and caregivers should talk openly with their children in the upcoming weeks about any feelings of anxiety and other related emotions related to going back to school,” says Dr. Roberto Sassi, psychiatrist-in-chief, BC Children’s Hospital. “Normalize that school can be challenging and that changes in emotional states during this transition are normal. There are many resources and supports available on the BC Children’s website that can help guide such conversations.”
Steps that families can take to promote wellbeing include:
- Creating safe and supportive environments: Value and praise your child for their unique strengths and encourage a healthy and balanced relationship between academics and extra-curricular/social activities.
- Developing routines: Support a consistent sleeping, eating, and socializing routine and incorporate daily physical activity, where possible.
- Model being calm: Try to focus on your own calm, using techniques such as mindfulness, when your child is feeling anxious.
It is important for children and families to seek help if mental health challenges are getting in the way of day-to-day activities, like school and spending time with friends. Talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner or get help from a mental health professional. Visit your nearest emergency department if your child is experiencing a medical emergency, including a mental health crisis.
More information and other wellness resources can be found on the BC Children’s website
1. In August 2024, BC Children’s saw a total of 73 patients presenting with a mental health concern as a chief complaint to the emergency department. In September, this increased to 98 patients.