Transitioning to
the hectic schedule of fall from the lazy, hazy days of summer can be just as
stressful for parents as it is for kids. It is not uncommon for people and
families to experience a growing sense of anxiety over getting back into the
busy school and work routine. Change of
any kind can create anxiety so it is not unexpected that huge changes in our
schedule would make us feel anxious too.
Transitions are
hard; they represent the reality that our lives and circumstances are
continually changing, evolving and transforming. And when there is change there
is also loss, the loss of what it is we are leaving behind. Children get older and so do we. Many families
for the first time this fall will experience a child going off to kindergarten,
high school, college, and some will be first time empty nesters. When we process
loss we gain the ability to fully embrace life’s inevitable changes and processing
loss prevents us from feeling “stuck” or “stalled” in our lives as well.
Many people and
families experience loss at the start of a new year related to spending less
time together, having less personal freedom and having a less flexible
schedule. Becoming aware of situations and events that are likely to increase
your and your families stress levels will help to actively manage anticipated
anxiety and promote healthy coping behaviors. Learning to plan ahead and being
able to discuss your emotions about change and loss with loved ones is
important since chronic stress and depression negatively impacts our emotional
health and contributes to depression, substance abuse, and even physical
illness.
Below are tips for
making your transition to fall smoother:
1. Get a full night’s sleep. A minimum of 7-8
hours of sleep per night helps to regulate mood, decrease anxiety and
depression, and improves concentration.
2. Set realistic goals for you and your
family. Avoid over scheduling your family and you. Ease into active days by
slowly adding activities for both your child and you as the year progresses.
3. As a family sit down and openly discuss
concerns about the up-coming year. This may include sorting out conflicts with
schedules, carpools, and mealtimes.
4. Make sure to schedule consistent “family
time” during the busy week. Maintaining a deep sense of connection with those
we love combats stress, depression and anxiety. And it’s a great way to add
love and laughter to your new year.
5. Give yourself a break too! Set aside time
for relaxing and decompressing from the busy, hectic days of fall.
SS
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