A new school year can bring a lot of feelings.
Maybe you’re excited to see your friends again. Maybe you’re starting a new school, worried about classes, wondering where you’ll fit in, or already feeling overwhelmed by everything that’s about to change.
If you’re not feeling completely ready for September, you’re definitely not the only one.
We asked Foundry Sea to Sky’s Peer Support Workers what helped them navigate those back-to-school feelings and what they wish they’d known when they were younger.
1. Find something to look forward to
Going back to school doesn’t have to be something you’re 100% excited about. Instead, think about the parts that do feel good.
For Bronwyn, that meant remembering she’d get to see friends and favourite teachers, learn subjects she enjoyed and return to activities she’d missed.
And if school isn’t a place where it’s easy to find that joy? Marissa recommends making sure you have things outside of school to look forward to, too.
2. Take control of the things you can
A new year comes with plenty you can’t control but preparing for the things you can may make everything feel a little less daunting.
Try gradually getting back into your sleep routine, meeting up with a friend before the first day, organizing your school supplies, or even making a playlist for the year.
Nicole also recommends writing down what’s overwhelming you. Seeing it on paper can make it easier to figure out which pieces you can actually do something about.
3. Remember: nobody has it all together
It can be hard not to compare yourself to everyone around you.
“No one has it all together,” says Marissa. “Everyone has invisible battles you don’t know about.”
Nicole agrees: “You are only seeing the exterior of people. Every brain is different and everyone goes at their own pace.”
So be gentle with yourself. Your effort, kindness and journey still count regardless of what someone else’s life looks like from the outside.
4. Find your people
Having even one person you feel safe talking to can make a big difference.
That might be a parent, friend, teacher or another trusted adult. Joining a club, sport or activity you enjoy can also make it easier to meet people with similar interests.
And remember, friendships should make you feel good and supported. Check out this article if your friendship isn’t.
5. Know when it’s time for some extra support
Back-to-school nerves are normal. But Bronwyn suggests paying attention if those feelings continue beyond the first few weeks, you’re avoiding things you normally enjoy, your sleep changes significantly, or stress starts affecting your everyday life.
Marissa offers another way to think about it:
If a friend were feeling the way you are, would you encourage them to get some extra support?
You don’t need to wait until things are really bad — and you don’t need a particular reason to ask for help.
As Marissa says, “As long as you want support, you can get support.”
If September still feels like a lot?
Bronwyn says to remember that it’s a new adventure and you don’t know yet what might be waiting for you.
We have another reminder:
At Foundry Sea to Sky, you can walk in and talk with a Peer Support Worker, Youth Outreach Worker or Counsellor.
Foundry Drop-In Support Squamish
Wednesdays: 2–5 pm (last intake at 4 pm)
Thursdays: 12–6 pm (last intake at 5 pm)
Youth Hub Squamish
Thursdays & Fridays: 3–7 pm
Saturdays: 2–8 pm
More back-to-school support
Foundry BC’s Back to School: Balancing Wellness with Everything Else has more ideas for taking care of your well-being while adjusting to the new school year, including making time for yourself, managing overwhelm and reaching out when you need support.
Back to School: Balancing Wellness with Everything Else — Foundry BC