Going Back to School: Tips for Overcoming Anxiety and Bullying

Do you have an anxious student on your hands? If so, then you’re far from alone. About 1 in 3 students will experience an anxiety disorder before they reach 18.

What’s more, data for that statistic was all compiled before 2020.

Since that time, the world has only become more stressful and anxiety-ridden. So, it’s likely that statistic has only gone up.

The good news is overcoming anxiety and bullying in school is not only possible but within reach. By taking a few steps before school starts, you can lay a healthy foundation for your student to thrive.

Keep reading to learn our top five tips on how to deal with elementary school bullies.

1. Focus on Communication With Your Child

One of the biggest reasons you may have an anxious student on your hands is because of a lack of communication. Some children don’t feel safe enough to express what’s happening to them.

Since they likely don’t have the coping skills needed to deal, they may suffer silently.

For that reason, you must focus on communicating with your child. You can’t help your child through something you don’t know is happening.

2. Normalize Student Anxiety

One thing that can help foster communication is normalizing student anxiety. In the past, society tended to downplay behavioral health issues like anxiety.

You can be the change you want to see by normalizing these issues for the next generation. Explain how every student will get anxious at some point. Then, explain the difference between productive and negative anxiety.

3. Talk About How to Handle Elementary School Bullies By Identifying Them First

Another thing you need to normalize is bullying. Explain to your child that bullies have always existed, and they always will exist. Bullying does not stop once kids reach adulthood.

That’s why you need to help your child identify and recognize bullying first. From there, you can start to discuss how to handle these situations when they come up.

4. Research and Discuss Coping Mechanisms

You should instruct your child to stay as far away from the bully as possible. Teach your child how to assert healthy boundaries and stand up for themselves.

Tell them who to report to if the other child continues to be disruptive.

5. Schools on Bullying: What Policies Are in Place?

Depending on the situation, you may need to consult with the school about what’s happening.

Learn what policies are in place, and verify they are being upheld. Take the necessary steps to escalate the situation to protect your child. Research your options if the school isn’t cooperating.

Overcoming Anxiety and Bullying in School

If you have a child going to school soon, then you must consider anxiety and bullying. These factors are present at all ages in school, and your child will get exposed if they’re in public school.

The good news is that overcoming anxiety and bullying in school is possible with these tips.

Keep communication open, normalize anxiety, and talk with your student. Discuss coping mechanisms, and consider talking to the school if things progress.

As a parent, you know that protecting your child is paramount. If you’re worried about their mental health, then we can help. Contact us to learn more about our services.