As summer winds down and school routines ramp back up, many families feel the shift in mood—early mornings, new teachers, social pressures, and the stress of change. For children, the back-to-school transition isn’t just about buying supplies and setting alarm clocks. It’s also about navigating emotional challenges that can impact their mental well-being.
At Healthy Connections and Evolve Behavioral Health Services, we understand that this time of year can be especially difficult for kids—and just as tough for parents trying to support them. Our licensed behavioral health professionals provide kid-friendly and parent-friendly care that helps families manage stress, anxiety, and behavioral changes, both in-person and via telehealth.
What Should Parents Watch For?
It’s normal for children to experience some nervousness as school starts. But how can you tell when it’s more than just first-day jitters?
Here are a few signs that your child may be struggling emotionally or mentally during the back-to-school transition:
- Changes in sleep: Difficulty falling asleep, waking frequently, or sleeping much more or less than usual
- Avoidance behaviors: Complaints of stomachaches, headaches, or frequent requests to stay home
- Irritability or mood swings: Easily frustrated, angry, or withdrawn without a clear reason
- Academic struggles: Sudden drop in performance, lack of motivation, or anxiety about homework
- Social withdrawal: Isolating from friends or avoiding social situations they previously enjoyed
These symptoms can show up in any child, regardless of age. In younger kids, it might look like clinginess or tantrums. In teens, it might show up as silence or resistance. The key is to stay tuned in and trust your instincts. You know your child best.
What Should Parents Say?
Start with empathy. Going back to school can feel overwhelming, and kids may not have the words to describe what they’re experiencing. Try saying:
- “It’s okay to feel nervous about school. A lot of kids do.”
- “What’s something that worries you about this year?”
- “Let’s talk about ways to make tomorrow feel easier.”
Ask open-ended questions and give your child space to express feelings—without judgment. Listen more than you talk. And avoid immediately trying to “fix” the problem. Sometimes, what kids need most is to feel heard and validated.
Set realistic expectations and remind your child that it’s okay to struggle. If they’re facing friendship issues, academic pressure, or anxiety, reassure them that they’re not alone—and that help is available.
When to Get Help
If your child’s emotional struggles last more than a few weeks or interfere with their ability to function at school or home, it may be time to seek professional support.
That’s where Evolve Behavioral Health Services, in partnership with Healthy Connections, comes in. Our team includes licensed therapists and counselors who specialize in working with children, teens, and families. We provide therapy for:
- Anxiety and depression
- School stress and academic challenges
- Social and peer-related issues
- Behavioral concerns
- Life transitions and trauma
We offer in-person and telehealth options to make it easy and comfortable for families to access care, whether from home or at a nearby clinic.
Family-Centered Mental Health Care That Works
For more than 25 years, Healthy Connections has served Arkansas communities with trusted, compassionate care. Evolve Behavioral Health Services is an extension of that mission—providing mental health support that’s accessible, confidential, and rooted in the needs of Arkansas families.
Our therapists meet your child where they are—emotionally, developmentally, and even geographically. We make it easy for parents to get support too, offering family therapy, parent coaching, and school coordination when needed.
We accept Medicaid, ARKids 1st, most major insurance plans, and offer a sliding fee scale for those who qualify. No one should have to choose between affordability and mental health.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Back-to-school season doesn’t have to be a source of stress—for your child or for you. Support is just a phone call or click away.
If you’ve noticed emotional or behavioral changes in your child—or if you simply want guidance on how to support them—reach out to Evolve Behavioral Health Services today.
📞 Call 800-409-6250
🌐 Learn more at www.evolvebhs.com
