Five ways to overcome back to school anxiety

Going back to school can be stressful for many students. Here are some tips that can help you calm back-to-school anxiety:

1. Identify what is causing your anxiety

Try to identify what is causing your anxiety and write it down. This can help you understand your feelings better. Imagine those specific situations that cause you anxiety. Close your eyes, see yourself in the situation, what can you hear, what can you smell? See yourself walking down to your classroom, sitting down. Pay attention to where in your body you feel your emotions. Are you sweating or shaking? Is your stomach on a knot or do you feel nauseous? Give space for these feelings and emotions. 

“Oh my palms are all sweaty that’s interesting”

“My feet are tingling and I feel a bit nauseous, how curious” 

2. Focus on the positives

Instead of focusing on the negatives, try to focus on the positives. Think about all the things you are looking forward to this school year. Write down goals for what you want to achieve this year. Make them specific for you. 

“I will return my assignments two days before deadline and will make passing all my courses my priority”
“I want to dedicate time to extracurricular activities also and meet new people”

Once you have your goals, break them down to details, how, when and how much time you will dedicate to achieve these goals.

3. Practice relaxation techniques

 Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help reduce anxiety. Whatever relaxes you best. take that into your routine, spa night and self care every Sunday? Jogging or knitting, watching the same feel good comfort- show you’ve watched a thousand times. 

4. Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for reducing anxiety. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. Implement good sleep hygiene and bedtime routines. Pay attention to possible alcohol use and excessive eating, they might affect your night sleep. The benefits of good sleep will enhance your learning abilities and can help you improve your memory. When you go to sleep after learning something, you slow down the rate of memory deterioration—the rate at which you forget things—after you wake up.

5. Talk to someone

Talking to someone about your anxiety can help you feel better. This could be a friend, family member, or a professional. If you take a leap of courage and say “I am so nervous on this first day” or simply “This is so exciting and nerve racking on meeting new people” you might be surprised at how many of your classmates will agree and share your anxiety.