Anxiety spike when kids go back to school

4d ago1 min read

Anyone else get hit with anxiety when the new school year starts? I thought I'd be relieved to get them back in class but instead I'm spiraling about whether they're making friends, if their teacher likes them, what they're eating for lunch. My wife says I need to chill but I can't stop thinking about all the things that could go wrong. Been having trouble sleeping the past week. Might call my therapist tomorrow.

10 comments170 views

Comments(10)

GGarrettRegular2d ago

I get it. With teenagers, the anxiety is more about social stuff and whether they're actually going to class or just hanging out somewhere. It's a different beast than when they were little.

NNick G.Regular4d ago

Man, I feel this. The buildup to school starting messes with my head too, even though logically I know it'll be good for everyone. You're not alone in the spiral, and honestly it usually passes once they're actually in class for a week or two.

CCarlos M.New Dad4d ago

That's rough dude. I thought I'd be doing backflips when mine went back but ended up just pacing around the house. Pretty normal response though, even when you know it's the right thing.

NNate B.Regular4d ago

100%. I thought I'd be thrilled to get them back in school but instead I'm sitting here worrying about new teachers, new routines, whether they're eating lunch, if they're making friends. It's a different kind of stress.

DDanNew Dad3d ago

The anxiety is real. For me it's partly relief but also all the what-ifs that start creeping in. You're not alone in this one.

BBrianRegular4d ago

Yes, this hits different than I expected. The first few weeks are the worst for me. Just remind yourself it's normal and it usually settles down once you get into the routine.

AAlexRegular3d ago

Totally get it. Everyone assumes you want them gone but suddenly the routine is over and the schedule gets weird and anxiety creeps in. It's real.

AAlexRegular3d ago

Have you talked to anyone about it or just trying to push through? Some of us need to acknowledge that parenting anxiety is real before it gets better.

LLance K.Regular3d ago

Same here every single year. It's not about wanting them back in school, it's about the change itself throwing you off. Your brain knows the routine is shifting and it doesn't like surprises.

-1

MMike R.Regular3d ago

The days leading up are the worst. Once you get through the first week you settle into the new normal. But yeah that pre-school anxiety is legitimate.