Back to School: Mental Health Tips for Teens

Back to School: Mental Health Tips for Teens

It’s that time of year again!

Back to school shopping for clothes, shoes, lunch bags, binders, and books. Yes, this new school year is right around the corner. As teens get ready for a new academic year, there is one important thing to keep in mind while items get checked off the to-do list: mental health.

Feeling nervous for your first day?

Worried about making friends and getting good grades?

Pre-school jitters are totally normal.

In fact, the team at Cypress Counseling & Behavioral Center knows exactly what adolescents are going through (hey, we were teens once too!) Our staff are on standby and ready to support Cypress, Texas parents, teachers, and youth as they navigate their mental health in August 2022 and beyond.

Mental Health Tips for an A+ School Year

Let’s face it, the past two school years have been challenging.

Between the pandemic, recent global unrest, and violent events occurring nationwide, no wonder Mental Health America has found that a growing percentage of youth in the U.S. live with mental health issues.

Teens today are experiencing:

· Anxiety / Panic Attacks

· Depression

· Trauma

· Stress Management

· Self-Esteem

· Grief

· Relationship Difficulties

· Bullying

· Eating Disorders

· Self-Harm

· Suicidal Ideation

· Life Changes

That is why it’s SO important for teens and educators to be mindful of mental health as we inch closer to September.

Here are 3 easy ways to do so:

1. Talk to Someone

Reach out for help if you need it. Oftentimes, mental health issues like low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma can be difficult to talk about. Plus, it can be hard to discuss relationship conflicts – especially with close family members and friends who are directly involved!

#awkward

Luckily, the staff at Cypress Counseling & Behavioral Center are trained counselors and therapists. Using a boutique style approach, we provide a non-judgemental, safe, welcoming atmosphere for you to share whatever is on your mind.

Check out these videos to “meet and greet” our teen therapists, Lenda, Frank, Andressa, Eynar, Naseem, Monica, and Brenda. Some also speak Spanish and Portuguese.

So, if you prefer conversing in those languages…we’ve got you!

2. Practice Healthy Coping Strategies

Our second mental health tip revolves around building resiliency. The goal is to respond to problems in a healthy way. For example, you can:

· Go for a walk

· Do something you love

· Listen to music

· Read a book

· Journal

· Connect with friends & family

· Talk to a therapist

3. Establish a Good Sleep and Homework Routine

Third, say goodbye to “summer slump.”

During July and August, many teens have less social interaction and spend more time alone. Plus, it’s tough getting back into the swing of things come September. After so much free time in the summer, sleeping in, staying up late, etc., adjusting to a new school year’s schedule takes getting used to.

Our advice?

Get enough sleep! Teens need at least 8 hours per night.

Don’t forget to also schedule regular study time. This will lower stress levels, keep you motivated, and ensure every door to your bright future is opened.

Enjoy your last week before school starts!

With just a couple of days to go, Cypress Counseling & Behavioral Center is here to help teens get ready for school. Regardless of what is happening at this moment in your life, we are willing to work by your side!

Click here to get started.

For more tips follow us on Instagram: @cypresscounselingtx