Going back to school in communities across Canada is different for everyone. Here, Kids Help Phone shares 50+ wellness resources for you to use as you navigate your feelings about school throughout the year.
Kids Help Phone is hearing from youth that they’re feeling a lot of emotions about going back to school. They may be experiencing:
- anxiety about going back to school in-person
- anxiety about starting at a new school (particularly for newcomers)
- bullying / abuse
- burnout (video from CBC Kids News)
- difficulty finding resources for clothes and other supplies
- excitement about sports and extracurricular activities
- fear of failing / falling behind / being left out
- joy at seeing old friends / making new friends
- optimism about being back in class
- separation anxiety
- stress about relocating for school (especially in remote communities)
- systemic racism
- and more
We want to let you know that however you’re feeling about going back to school this year, you’re not alone, especially as you think about what school may be / is like for you. We also want to remind you that it’s common to feel more stress during new, uncertain or difficult times. It’s important to be kind to yourself (downloadable tips from School Mental Health Ontario), and remember that if intense emotions are taking over your life / causing other concerns for you, you can reach out and get support if / when you need it.
Students across Canada can explore the following wellness tips, tools and resources for:
Test prep: Study tips you need for your next exam
Make the grade: Improve study habits with these A+ tips
Homework help: How to get support
9 tips for difficult conversations with teachers
Resources Around Me
Want to talk to your peers? Check out these support forums.
Support for Black youth: RiseUp powered by Kids Help Phone
Need to have a tough conversation with someone? Here’s how.
How can I talk to a parent/caregiver about something?
Need to share what’s on your mind? Try letter writing!
How to map out your community of support
I feel alone — are there any real-life stories I can read?
High school 101: How to prep for big changes
Finishing high school: What to do after graduation
Life after high school: How to support yourself
What to expect from post-secondary school life
Post-secondary school: How to stay focused
Job hunting: Resumé, cover letter & interview tips
Inexpensive back-to-school shopping tips
Kids Help Phone’s ultimate back-to-school guide
11 ways to feel more motivated
Self-care can be more than bubble baths. Here’s our guide.
How to beat the Sunday night blues
Kids Help Phone’s Wheel of Well-Being
Try: Mindfulness colouring book
Exploring my identity by making my own zine!
Worry Rockets
How to start journaling today
Breathing Balloon
8 feel good tips to boost your mood
How can I cope with my feelings about the future?
How to cope with upsetting news stories
How to help a friend: 20+ resources from Kids Help Phone
NHL players on dealing with expectations
What is mental health?
Understanding why it
can be hard to reach out for help
How I can cope with thoughts of suicide
Eating disorders: Important things to know
What is body image and why is it important?
Self-injury: What it is and how to cope
10 ways to live a more balanced life
How to take care of yourself when using substances
I’m grieving a loss. How can I process & get support?
How to cope with change in a friendship
Anti-Black racism & how to be an ally
Support for First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth
How to deal with conflict between family members
Work it out: Exercise and fitness tips
No matter how you’re feeling about going back to school, you’re not alone. Reaching out and talking to someone about your feelings and situation is the first step to feeling better. We’re here to help during this time (and always)!
If you’re an adult seeking ways to support a young person in your life with back to school, you can visit our resources for caring adults.
