What Teen School Anxiety Looks Like
School can be a major source of anxiety for teens. For many, the stress shows up in two big areas: social pressure and academic performance. For some teens, school can feel completely overwhelming. As summer or winter break starts to wrap up, they become very stressed and irritable. Sometimes teens will make up excuses, so they don’t have to go to school. Teen school anxiety is a real struggle for adolescents, and it’s important to do something about it.
10 Tips to Help With Teen School Anxiety
Instead of seeing school as a place to learn, your teen may start to view it as a place where they’re constantly judged. This can cause significant stress and anxiety. The good news is that there are simple, helpful ways to ease teen school anxiety. Here are 10 tips that can make a real difference:
1. Study Ahead—Not Just the Night Before
Spread studying out over the week leading up to a test. Cramming at the last minute only adds stress and leads to burnout. Besides, if you don’t do all your studying last minute you will actually retain information better!
2. Don’t Believe Every Negative Voice
If someone says something unkind, it doesn’t make it true. What your family and God think of you matters way more. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, pray and refocus.
3. Breathe Deep
When anxiety hits—especially during a test—take a few slow, deep breaths. It helps calm your body and your mind.
4. Talk About It: Discussing Teen School Anxiety
Always remember, you don’t have to deal with teen school anxiety alone. Talking to a trusted friend, parent, or counselor can bring real relief.
5. Choose Friends Who Lift You Up
Friends have a big influence on how you feel day to day. Surround yourself with people who encourage you and bring out your best. If you have kind friends you will likely feel a lot happier socially.
6. Build Relationships with Teachers
Just saying hi or asking a question after class can make teachers feel more approachable. This can also help you feel more comfortable in their class, a key element in defeating teen school anxiety.
7. Cut Back on Caffeine
Too much soda or coffee can make anxiety worse. If you’re tired, try going for a quick walk or doing a few jumping jacks instead. Exercise will wake you up too—without the nervous jitters that caffeine can cause.
8. Stretch Between Classes
A simple stretch between periods helps release physical tension and gives your brain a mini reset.
9. Don’t Forget to Smile
If you’re feeling socially anxious, you might walk around with your head down. Smiling—even a little—can make you more approachable and open the door to conversation.
10. Sleep Is a Game-Changer
Not getting enough sleep makes everything harder. Not having enough sleep makes teen school anxiety much, much worse. You probably have to get up early for school, so make it a habit to go to bed earlier.
Defeating Teen School Anxiety
Teen school anxiety is real, but with a few changes, your teen can feel calmer and more in control. Start with a couple of these tips, and build from there—progress matters more than perfection.
Helping teens grow and families improve connection,
Lauren Goodman, MS, MFT