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Back at school but wish you were still at home?

For some, doing school from home meant more control over your time, including time with family and friends, and the chance to take a pass on those you didn’t feel like bumping into each day.

But for the time being, school is back to normal, and changing back can hit pretty hard.

Change is normal, but not everyone likes it. And that’s okay if that’s you. You’ve had to put up with a lot of change in 2020, so give yourself a pat on the back for getting through it.

If you’re feeling uneasy, knowing the reasons why can help get you through.

When a tough situation springs up, some of us will face it head on (fight) while some of us will try to get away (flight). These feelings are natural, and they’re likely the result of:

  • Anxiety about what’ll happen next. Will there be a second wave? Are we safe?
  • Fear that the problems you had before are still around
  • Sadness and loss about the change in lifestyle
  • Readjusting to a school that isn’t quite the same as before as well as shifts in your friendships.

Here’s what you can do

Understand that different is okay

Things are going to be different and it’s going to take some time for them to go back to being the way they were before. Just remember, different doesn’t have to mean ‘bad’; you may find that things have changed for the better now that teachers have had some time to adjust and adapt classes to the new normal.

Focus on the positives

While it sounds easier said than done, by focusing on the positives like seeing your friends regularly and getting easier access to your teachers, you’ll likely see a lift in your mood and feel less overwhelmed.

Be kind to yourself

Remember, this is an adjustment, and just because you’re not feeling comfortable right away that doesn’t mean you won’t at some point. It takes time. So go easy on yourself, don’t punish yourself for feeling nervous or unsure. Be patient and take each day as it comes.

But what about those old problems?

If things like bullying are putting you off going back to school, remember that bullying wasn’t okay before things changed, and it isn’t okay now. School has your back – support is there when you need it, so speak to a teacher or your school guidance officer, and don’t give up until you get the help you need!

You’ve got this!

While so much feels uncertain, just know that one thing is for certain – we’re all in this together. You are not alone with your feelings; start by talking to your friends and your teachers. If you need more help, try reaching out to other support services like Kids Helpline, Headspace or Youth Beyond Blue, you can find their details at our support page.

Remember, believe in yourself – you’ll get through it in time!

Looking for more help?