Back to School – Prioritizing Mental Health for Parents and Teachers
- jasonmillerpsych
- Aug 8
- 3 min read
As the school year begins, the energy in the air is a mix of excitement, fresh starts, and—if we’re being honest—a bit of stress. For students, new classes and friends can be thrilling. But for parents and teachers, the shift into the school season often comes with heavier workloads, tighter schedules, and the challenge of supporting young people through their own transitions.
At Athra, we work exclusively with adults in our outpatient services, and we see first-hand how the demands of the school year can impact mental health. Supporting the well-being of parents and teachers isn’t just important—it’s essential for creating the supportive environments students need to thrive.
Why the Back-to-School Season Can Be Stressful for Adults
Even if you love the start of the school year, it can quickly become overwhelming:
For parents: juggling homework help, carpool schedules, after-school activities, and work responsibilities can leave little time for personal care.
For teachers: balancing lesson planning, grading, and administrative demands—while also being a steady presence for students—can be emotionally and physically draining.
The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that nearly 60% of teachers feel stressed “often” or “always” during the school year, and 38% of parents say the back-to-school transition is one of the most stressful times of the year for their families.
Dr. Jason Miller, Athra’s chief clinical officer ad managing partner notes, “When adults are stretched too thin, it not only impacts their own well-being but also their ability to be fully present for the young people in their lives.”
Mental Health Tips for Parents and Teachers
1. Keep a Consistent Routine
A predictable schedule helps reduce anxiety and improves sleep. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends adults get 7–9 hours of sleep per night for optimal mental and physical health. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day—even on weekends—can stabilize mood and increase energy.
2. Protect Personal Time
Set aside at least 15–30 minutes daily for something that restores you—reading, walking, meditating, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of coffee. “Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s how you sustain the energy to care for others,” says Dr. Miller. Research published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology shows that even short breaks can reduce stress and prevent burnout.
3. Set Realistic Expectations
Both at work and home, perfection is unrealistic. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) emphasizes that prioritizing and breaking large tasks into smaller steps can prevent overwhelm and help maintain balance.
4. Monitor Your Stress Signals
Pay attention to changes in mood, sleep patterns, or physical health. Headaches, irritability, and fatigue can be early signs of burnout. A study in Frontiers in Psychology found that identifying stress symptoms early can lead to better coping strategies and improved resilience.
5. Stay Connected
Social connection is a proven protective factor for mental health. The Mayo Clinic notes that having a strong social support network can increase happiness, improve self-confidence, and even extend life expectancy. Make time to connect with friends, colleagues, or other parents—even if it’s just a quick coffee or phone call.
6. Ask for Help Early
If stress, anxiety, or burnout becomes overwhelming, seek professional support before it escalates. The APA stresses that early intervention leads to better outcomes for most mental health conditions. Athra offers outpatient mental health services tailored to the unique needs of adults, including teachers and parents.
How Athra Can Help
We provide compassionate, professional care for adults navigating life transitions, workplace pressures, and personal challenges. With both in-person and virtual outpatient visits, getting support fits easily into your schedule.
📍 San Antonio Corporate Office:
909 NE Interstate 410 Loop, Suite 600, San Antonio, TX 78209
📞 (210) 460-0070
The bottom line: Taking care of your own mental health is one of the best ways to support the children and young people who depend on you. As Dr. Miller puts it, “You can’t pour from an empty cup. When adults are mentally healthy, everyone in their care benefits.”
