Navigating Mental Wellness Checks During Back to School Season

(Adobe Stock via Minnesota News Connection)

(Mike Moen. Minnesota News Connection) – Minnesota students might be a little bummed their summer vacation is beginning to wind down and if they are increasingly worried about the upcoming year, mental health experts encouraged parents to include a wellness check in their preparation.

The transition to August often includes immunization appointments and sports physicals for students.

Carolyn Felty, manager of school based mental health for the nonprofit mental health care provider Canvas Health, said for parents who have a sense their child’s mental health needs focus, they might want to first bring it up with their family doctor. She pointed out it is normal for kids to express some anxiety as school approaches but some symptoms should prompt a follow-up.

“Difficulties with sleeping or eating, maybe if kiddos are having aggression, avoidance, or sometimes they even complain about headaches and tummy aches,” Felty outlined.