Fall Back to School

Did you see it?  The leave are already starting to turn color. (We can see it outside the Refresh Counselling offices)

Summer break isn't quite over but it is coming to an end, and it’s time to get back to school. For many students, this can be a difficult transition, especially after such a long break. It’s important to not only plan for the academic challenges of the upcoming year but also to prepare oneself emotionally and mentally for the months ahead. Going back to school is a big change, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. In this post, we’ll share some tips and tricks to help you get emotionally and mentally prepared and make the most of your fall semester.

1. Reflect on Your Summer
Before you think about going back to school, take a moment to reflect on your summer. What did you enjoy about it? Consider the things you accomplished and the moments that made you happy. Reflecting on positive memories can help shift your focus from the end of summer to the start of a new opportunity. If you had a stressful or not-so-good summer, try to identify the causes of your distress and think of ways to address them in the upcoming year.

2. Get Organized
Organizing your school materials may seem like a daunting task, but it can be a great way to reduce stress and mental clutter. Take some time to organize your backpack, desk, and other materials. Even consider doing your back to school shopping a little earlier than you might normally do.  This will help you feel more prepared for the academic year.

3. Get Back into a Routine
The summer is a time for more relaxed schedules, but as school approaches, it’s important to start getting back into a routine. Try waking up at the same time every day and establishing a bedtime routine. This will help your body adjust to early mornings and improve your mental alertness in class.

4. Connect with Friends and Peers
Going back to school can be a bit scary, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Take some time before school starts to reconnect with friends and peers. You can also join clubs or extracurricular activities to meet new people and get involved.

5. Practice Mindfulness
Lastly, think about incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Mindfulness means being fully present in the moment without judgment and can be a great way to reduce stress. You can try meditation, deep breathing, or simply taking a few minutes to focus on your breath. These practices can help you stay centered and focused on your goals.

Going back to school can be an exciting and overwhelming time, but with a little preparation and mindfulness, you can make the most of your semester. Take time to reflect on your summer, get organized, establish a routine, connect with friends and peers, and practice mindfulness. These small steps can make a difference and help you feel emotionally and mentally prepared for your academic journey ahead. Also if you ever need any kind of support, our team at Refresh Counselling Calgary are excited to help and support you.  Either way, remember, you got this!

Refresh Counselling Calgary