Back-to-School Anxiety: What Parents Need to Know

Returning to in-person school can be exciting—but for many kids, it also brings back-to-school anxiety, stress, and uncertainty. Parents play a critical role in recognizing signs of distress and helping their children navigate this transition.

Understanding Back-to-School Anxiety

Dr. Aimee McArthur, psychiatrist at Scarborough Health Network’s Community Mental Health Centre, notes that anxiety is one of the most common concerns among youth today.

“Some nervousness about new teachers, friends, or routines is normal,” says Dr. McArthur. “But when anxiety begins to affect sleep, appetite, or school attendance, it’s a sign your teen may need additional support.”

Common contributors to anxiety include the lingering impact of the pandemic, social pressures, and the influence of social media. “Youth are growing up in a digital age, using smartphones and social media earlier than ever. While it connects them, it also exposes them to challenges like cyberbullying and constant comparison—which can take a toll on mental health,” Dr. McArthur explains.

Signs Your Child May Need Extra Support

Watch for patterns that may interfere with daily life:

• Persistent trouble sleeping or waking up anxious

• Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits

• Avoiding school or social activities

• Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks

How Parents Can Help Their Anxious Child

Practical strategies include:

1. Set routines early: Start school sleep and wake times a week or two in advance. Visit new schools or campuses together.

2. Talk openly: Create space for mental health conversations.

3. Know your resources: Schools and post-secondary institutions often provide accommodations and supports—take time to explore what’s available.

4. Seek professional help when needed: Therapy and, in some cases, medication can help teens manage anxiety effectively.

“Parents are often the first people their child talks to about mental health,” says Dr. McArthur. “Simply listening and validating their feelings—without pressure to fix everything—goes a long way.”

A Story of Resilience

One of Dr. McArthur’s patients, a university student, struggled so severely with panic disorder that she had to take time off school. With a treatment plan involving both therapy and medication—and the strong support of her mother—she gradually regained her confidence. This year, she is returning to school in a new program.

“What stood out was how supportive her mother was,” Dr. McArthur recalls. “Even though her daughter was over 18 and could attend appointments on her own, she asked to have her mom join some sessions. Her mother was eager to learn about mental health and find ways to help. That openness made a huge difference in her recovery.”

“When parents are open to listening, learning, and supporting their kids, the impact is enormous,” she adds.

Resources at Scarborough Health Network

The RBC Youth Mental Well-being Clinic

Thanks to the generous support of the RBC Foundation, SHN opened the RBC Youth Mental Well-being Clinic within its new Community Mental Health Centre in June 2024. The clinic provides specialized care for youth aged 18–24, offering:

• Individual and group therapy for anxiety, depression, and mood disorders

• Programs like Acceptance and Community Therapy, as well as Building Resiliency Groups

• Flexible access: in-person, virtual, or at convenient SHN locations

In its first year alone, the clinic welcomed more than 7,800 visits, reflecting the urgent need for youth-focused mental health care in our community

The Shoniker Clinic

The Shoniker Clinic has a long history of providing excellent, evidence-based care for children and adolescents under 18 in Scarborough, Pickering, and Ajax. It supports youth experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Families can expect confidential assessments, individual and group therapy, and family involvement tailored to each child’s needs. Eligibility requires being under 18, living in Scarborough (postal codes beginning with M1) or West Durham, and experiencing significant mental health symptoms that affect quality of life.

Learn more: Shoniker Clinic at SHN