MENTAL HEALTH CHECK-INS ESSENTIAL FOR FAMILIES OF YOUNG PEOPLE DURING BACK-TO- SCHOOL TRANSITION
Written by Lucy Hall
With many young people across the country get ready to head into a new school year, many families are focused on school supplies, class schedules, and lunchbox routines. But there’s another essential back-to-school priority that often gets overlooked, mental health.
The transition from holiday mode to the structure of school can bring excitement, but it can also stir up stress, uncertainty, and pressure. That’s why headspace is encouraging families to regularly check in with their young person’s mental wellbeing, especially as they navigate the demands of study, friendships, and extracurricular activities.
What’s Impacting Young People the Most?
New insights from the first-ever National Family Mental Health Survey, highlight the biggest concerns families have for their young person’s wellbeing. The top three challenges identified were:
- Social media pressure (52%)
- Online bullying (28%)
- Body image concerns (26%)
The findings also revealed that three in four families (74%) believe mental health pressures on today’s young people are significantly greater than when they were growing up.
Where and How Are Families Talking About Mental Health?
The good news is that many parents and caregivers are already having these important conversations. The survey found that:
- 62% of families regularly discuss stress and coping strategies.
- 59% talk about school or work-related pressures.
On of the top spots for these chats happens to be in the car (48%), where the distractions are minimal, and young people feel more comfortable opening up.
While many families find time for these conversations, it’s important that parents and caregivers are intentional about checking in, especially in the coming weeks as young people settle into their new school routines.
Why These Conversations Matter!
According to headspace’s National Clinical Advisor, Deb Mountjoy, said family is an important source of support for young people, particularly at the start of a new school or work year. This includes those transitioning from primary to secondary school, or into further study or the workforce.
“The start of a new year can be really exciting, however it’s also a time of change, so some young people can also feel nervous, uncertain or unsure about what the year will hold.”
“Facing the challenge of a different environment and routine, making new friends and managing school work can also bring uncertainty.”
“We encourage parents and families to regularly check in with their young people over the coming weeks to see how they’re feeling. It can also be helpful to prepare for going back to school or work, such as working out a healthy routine that balances study, social life, self-care and family time.”
Signs Your Young Person Might Need Extra Support
It’s normal for young people to experience a mix of emotions during this transition, but parents should take note if they notice:
- Ongoing difficulties with sleep or appetite
- A loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy
- Persistent feelings of stress or overwhelm
If these signs continue, it might be time to seek extra support, whether that’s through open family conversations, school wellbeing services, or professional guidance.
A Simple but Powerful Reminder
Mental health check-ins don’t have to be formal or structured. A casual chat in the car, during a walk, or at the dinner table can make all the difference. The key is to create a space where young people feel heard, supported, and reassured that whatever challenges come their way, they’re not facing them alone.
For more resources on supporting youth mental health, visit headspace.org.au.