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Hey there, Braves! School’s back in session and with it comes a mix of excitement, nerves, and, if we’re honest, a bit of stress. That’s totally normal — your mental health matters, and taking care of it can make your school year way better. Read on for some tips to help you be your best self this school year.
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1. Back-to-School Jitters? You’re Not Alone!
Feeling anxious or overwhelmed about being back at school? Whether it’s a new school, new teachers, making friends, homework pressure, or college apps, lots of your peers feel the same way. Try this:
- Breathe Deep: When anxiety creeps in, pause and take 3 deep breaths — inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8.
- Talk It Out: Share your feelings with a friend, family member, Counselor, or another trusted adult. Opening up can make a huge difference.
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2. Set Small, Achievable Goals
Big goals are nice, but breaking them down into small steps keeps things manageable.
- Want to improve in math? Try doing one extra practice problem a day.
- Aim to join one new club or sport? Start by just showing up once.
Celebrate your wins, no matter how small!
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3. Create a Mental Health Toolbox
Fill it with things that help you relax and recharge:
- Music playlists that calm or hype you up
- Journaling your thoughts or doodling in a special notebook
- Quick workouts or yoga stretches
- Practice mindfulness
- Funny videos or memes
- Positive affirmations like “I’ve got this” or “One step at a time"
Whenever school stress hits, go to your toolbox!
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4. Balance is Key
School is important, but so are YOU.
- Make time for hobbies and friends.
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep (yes, seriously!).
- Don’t forget to eat nutritious meals.
- Take short breaks when you need them.
Your brain works best when you’re rested and happy.
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5. When to Ask for Help
It’s Brave to ask for support if things feel too heavy. If you notice:
- Persistent sadness or irritability
- Trouble concentrating or sleeping
- Feeling hopeless or overwhelmed
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Reach out to a trusted adult - at home, at school, or somewhere else. You’re not alone, and help is ready and waiting for you.
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HELPFUL RESOURCES
- 988 Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free 24/7 support
- Teen Line: Call 1-800-852-8336 or text TEEN to 839863
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Lots of information on different mental health conditions and resources to help.
- The Trevor Project - Suicide prevention resources for LGBTQ+ youth
- Calm App: Free meditation and sleep stories for stress relief. Headspace is another great app that is free to members of Brebeuf’s Bring Change 2 Mind/Mental Health Club - it’s not too late to join!
- Your School Counselor, College Counselor and Social Worker: Don’t forget, we are here to listen and help!
- Brebeuf Cares - Brebeuf’s Anonymous Alert Portal. Available for you to report any mental health concerns as well as harassment, discrimination and bullying.
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Remember: Back-to-school season is a fresh start — full of opportunities to grow, learn, connect, and take care of YOU. You’ve got this, Braves!
Libby Pollak, MSW
School Social Worker
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With Brebeuf Cares, students are encouraged to use this form not only if they see something concerning, such as bullying or offensive misconduct, but also if they see or hear something more subtly troubling, like a friend who has become suddenly withdrawn, distant, depressed or has threatened to harm themselves.
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