Back-to-School Anxiety: Tips from Through the Woods Psychology

I’m Michelle from Through the Woods Psychology in Calgary, Alberta. Each year as school approaches, we see many students and parents navigating the same mix of anticipation and stress — and we’re here to help. The shift from relaxed summer routines to early mornings, structured schedules, and academic demands can feel overwhelming for students and parents alike.

Understanding Back-to-School Anxiety

Feeling anxious about returning to school is common. For students, anxiety may come from:

• Academic pressures – Concerns about grades, workload, and performance.
• Social anxieties – Worries about fitting in, making friends, or handling peer dynamics.
• Routine changes – Adjusting to earlier wake-up times, homework, and structured schedules.
• New environments – Starting at a new school or advancing to a higher grade.

Parents may face their own challenges:

• Supporting a child’s well-being – Concerns about adjustment, school success, and friendships.
• Time management – Balancing work, school drop-offs and pick-ups, and extracurriculars.
• Financial pressures – Costs for supplies, fees, and activities.

Tips for a Smoother Transition

At Through the Woods Psychology, we recommend proactive strategies to reduce stress:

1. Gradual re-entry – Adjust sleep schedules and routines one to two weeks before school starts.
2. Open communication – Talk about feelings without judgment and create a safe space to share.
3. Focus on what you can control – Organize supplies, set up study spaces, and plan meals.
4. Healthy routines – Prioritize sleep, balanced meals, and regular physical activity.
5. Manage expectations – Allow time for adjustment and set small, achievable goals.
6. Seek support – Connect with friends, teachers, school counselors, or mental health professionals if needed.

We’re Here to Help

Back-to-school is a transition, not a race. Be patient with yourself and your family. If anxiety, stress, or emotional challenges are affecting your well-being, Through the Woods Psychology in Calgary, Alberta offers counseling and mental health services for children, teens, and adults both in-person and online.

Visit our website to learn more or to book your free consultation today. You can also get in touch by email at info@throughthewoods.ca or phone at (403) 984-7922.

From the team at Through the Woods Psychology and myself, we wish you a healthy, positive start to the school year!

Michelle Poon
Through the Woods Psychology – Calgary, Alberta