Feeling Anxious About Returning to School After a Month Away
I haven’t attended school since the end of January, right after the first semester exams wrapped up. I’m really nervous about going back because I know I’ll have to tackle a lot of tests and quizzes that I barely grasped. As a 9th grader, I finished the semester with mostly A’s and A+’s, along with one B+, but now I find it hard to feel motivated to return. I feel like I’m failing all my classes, and it’s been taking a toll on my mental health.
I’ve been putting off checking the grades app because I fear seeing a bunch of missing assignments and failing marks. My usual procrastination has intensified, and I struggle to find the energy to get up in the morning. It’s frustrating because I might feel motivated the night before, but when morning comes, that excitement turns into fear and anxiety. I’ve always had attendance issues, and I’m worried my teachers and friends will be upset with me. I really need some support.
On top of all this, I’ve been having trouble sleeping. I can’t seem to stay asleep for more than two hours without waking up in the middle of the night. I could use any advice or help right now.
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way. It’s completely understandable to be scared about going back to school after being away for a while, especially when you’re facing a lot of pressure with tests and assignments. You’ve done really well in the past, and it’s okay to be feeling overwhelmed right now.
First, know that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Many students struggle with similar feelings, especially when they’re dealing with challenges like anxiety, depression, or difficulties with motivation. It’s important to acknowledge that these feelings are valid, and it’s okay to seek help.
Here are a few steps you might consider:
Talk to Someone: Reach out to a trusted adult, whether it’s a parent, teacher, or school counselor. They can offer support and help you find ways to catch up and manage your workload. It’s a sign of strength to ask for help.
Take It One Step at a Time: Instead of thinking about everything at once, try to break things down into smaller, manageable tasks. Maybe start by checking just one subject’s grades or assignments. Setting small goals can help build your confidence.
Create a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can be helpful. Try to set specific times for study, breaks, and sleep, aiming for a consistent wake-up and sleep time to help regulate your body clock.
Practice Self-Care: It’s important to take care of yourself during this time. Make sure you’re eating well, staying hydrated, and incorporating some physical activity into your day, even if it’s just a short walk. This can help improve your mood and energy levels.
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Consider incorporating some mindfulness practices or relaxation techniques to manage anxiety. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can be really helpful to calm your mind.
Connect with Friends: If you’re comfortable, reach out to your friends. They can be a great source of support, and knowing they care can make it easier to feel connected again.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: If you’re finding that your feelings of depression and anxiety persist, consider talking to a mental health professional. They can provide you with strategies and coping mechanisms tailored to your needs.
Remember, it’s okay to take small steps toward feeling better. You’re not failing—you’re navigating a tough situation, and with time and support, things can improve. You’ve already shown resilience by reaching out, and that’s an important first step. Take care of yourself!