September is a time of transition. The weather grows cooler, the nights start to draw in and for families children are changing school years, starting new schools or colleges or even leaving education altogether. For most, there will be the usual nerves of excitement and uncertainty which will settle after a few days or so, however, for a few the anxiety will not leave or may even get worse.
Anxiety may show itself in physical symptoms
- Stomach and bowel problems
- Headaches
- Racing heart and shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Shaking
Emotional signs can be
- Crying
- Becoming withdrawn
- Anger
- Moodiness
- Losing interest in activities
- Challenging behaviours
School anxiety can be a major worry for parents and many schools will be able to offer you advice and support to help your young person settle and enjoy their school day. Colleges will have student support to help with the change from school to the very different world of Further Education.
If you or your young person would benefit from additional support, I am able to offer 1:1 counselling focusing on the causes of anxiety and practical and emotional ways to support you through them.
REMEMBER:
- Some level of anxiety during transition is absolutely normal and should become easier over time.
- Anxiety is real and has very real physical and emotional symptoms. Telling someone to ‘get on with it’ won’t help!
- There are resources and people who can help, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
- Listen to your young person, hear their concerns and let them know you understand
- Avoiding school is not the answer – seek help before absence becomes a problem.
For more information or to make an appointment please contact me.
Nicola Medlicott Counselling Services 