Students need stronger support for back-to-school anxiety

Support for back-to-school anxiety

Returning to school after a long break can be an exciting time, but for many young people it also comes with overwhelming feelings of stress and uncertainty. Recent surveys in the UK highlight that a significant proportion of students feel their schools are not offering the support for back-to-school anxiety they truly need. Academic pressure, social expectations and the challenges of adolescence often combine to create a difficult environment that many students struggle to navigate alone.

Creating a safe and empathetic atmosphere is key. Teachers, parents and school leaders have an important role to play in ensuring pupils feel understood and equipped to manage the return to school with confidence.

Main triggers of back-to-school anxiety

Academic pressure – Exams, assignments and homework were identified as the leading source of stress for students.
Social expectations – Friendship dynamics, bullying and peer pressure can make school an intimidating place.
Uncertainty – Many pupils wish for clearer communication about what to expect when returning to school.
External factors – Socioeconomic conditions and the influence of social media often intensify existing worries.

What students are asking for

Young people consistently express a need for more understanding, flexibility and compassion from their schools. According to recent findings:

Many students want greater empathy from teachers regarding their struggles.
Flexible deadlines and realistic expectations are requested to reduce pressure.
Clearer guidance about the return to school can help lessen uncertainty and fear.

The importance of open communication

One of the most concerning insights is that fewer than one in ten students feel comfortable discussing their worries with a teacher. Even fewer would approach a school counsellor or mental health professional. This shows a gap in trust and accessibility when it comes to receiving support for back-to-school anxiety.

Schools must take proactive steps to bridge this gap. Building a culture where mental health conversations are normalised and where support is accessible without stigma is crucial for pupils’ wellbeing.

How schools can respond effectively

Invest in mental health resources

Greater investment is needed in counselling services, mental health training for staff, and partnerships with external professionals. This ensures students can access the right help when they need it most.

Address the root causes

While schools provide direct support, they must also advocate for broader changes to reduce the systemic causes of stress, such as exam pressure and the negative effects of social media.

Encourage empathy and flexibility

Students thrive in environments where their struggles are met with patience and understanding. Simple changes, such as offering flexible deadlines or reducing unnecessary stressors, can make a significant difference.

Conclusion

Providing effective support for back-to-school anxiety requires more than just short-term solutions. It involves building trust, promoting empathy and addressing the wider challenges that contribute to poor mental health. Schools, families and communities must work together to ensure that every student feels supported, valued and ready to succeed in their education.