August is Back to School Month

If the “summer’s over!” ritual causes you autumnal anxiety, participate in Back to School Month this August! It’s an observance that helps parents, students and teachers transition to the new academic year.

• Switching from summer to school schedules can be stressful to the whole family. Minimize first-day-of-school chaos by practicing your morning routine several days in advance, particularly with younger children.
• Whether your child is driving to school for the first time, taking the bus, bicycling, or walking with friends, review how to stay safe, such as focusing on walking (or driving) rather than texting, and using crosswalks.
• An important component of back-to-school success is that parents guide children with a positive, non-anxious attitude.
• Get the class supply list and take a shopping trip with your child. Allow for a splurge or two like a nifty notebook or a cool-colored pen to make things more fun.

August is normally the back-to-school month for most students. We are taking the opportunity to discuss student mental health throughout the month. We are highlighting the importance of speaking openly about student mental health, as mental illness is very common among students today. With your help, we can bring awareness to the prevalence of mental illness on campuses.

It’s our job to help end the stigma surrounding mental health by sharing resources and starting conversations. Throughout the month of August, we encourage family, friends, and loved ones to learn more about student mental health and what resources are available on and off campus to help these students.

Here are some important facts you should know:

• 56% of students are significantly concerned with their ability to care for their mental health.