LK Psychotherapy shares back-to-school mental health tips for families and teachers

LK Psychotherapy & Clinical Services in Belleville, Ontario is urging parents and educators to watch for school-related anxiety and early stress as students head back to class. The practice says simple routines, open communication and early support can help prevent small struggles from turning into bigger mental health issues.

Why it matters: - The weeks around back-to-school can surface anxiety in children, teens and educators. - Early support may help families and schools address mental health needs before they escalate. - A smoother transition can improve the school year for students, parents and teachers.

What happened: - LK Psychotherapy & Clinical Services in Belleville, Ontario released guidance for families, teachers and students as the new academic year begins. - Founder and Trauma Therapist Lethicia Foadjo said the return to school is an emotional shift, not just a logistical one. - The practice said the back-to-school period is a critical window for spotting mental health concerns early.

The details: - Signs of school-related anxiety in children and teens can include refusal or reluctance to attend school. - Other warning signs include sudden mood or behavior changes, headaches, stomach aches, trouble sleeping, clinginess, and withdrawal from friends or favorite activities. - The practice recommends calm, consistent routines at home. - Parents are advised to keep predictable morning and evening schedules. - Parents should validate feelings without reinforcing avoidance. - LK Psychotherapy & Clinical Services recommends open communication between parents, teachers and school staff. - The practice says that home-school coordination gives children a more consistent and supportive environment. - Educators face their own pressure at the start of the year, including new students, shifting curriculum demands and high emotional labor. - Recommended strategies for teachers include setting realistic expectations for the first few weeks. - The practice also recommends short recovery periods during the school day. - Teachers are encouraged to watch for early stress signals such as irritability and fatigue. - The practice advises educators to lean on colleagues and school-based support systems instead of carrying pressure alone. - Foadjo said teachers are often the first to notice when a student is struggling, but they need support too.

Between the lines: - The message is broader than back-to-school tips. - LK Psychotherapy & Clinical Services is framing mental health as a shared responsibility among families, schools and caregivers. - The guidance also reflects a preventive approach, with an emphasis on early intervention before stress becomes burnout or deeper anxiety.

What's next: - Families and educators can schedule a consultation at LK Psychotherapy & Clinical Services, 48 Dundas St West, Belleville, Ontario. - Appointments are available by calling (613) 813-9529. - More information is available on the practice's website. - LK Psychotherapy & Clinical Services says it offers individual therapy, parent coaching, attachment work and support for high-demand professional settings, including education. - The practice also provides trauma-informed, culturally responsive psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families, plus group therapy, executive coaching and specialized programs for military members and first responders.

The bottom line: - LK Psychotherapy & Clinical Services is urging families and schools to treat the start of the school year as a mental health checkpoint, not just a calendar change.