Mental Health Experts Offer Parents Tips to Manage Back-to-School Anxiety
HK01 · 1 SOURCES1 day ago4 MIN
Summary
The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong (香港心理衞生會) has published guidance to help parents manage back-to-school anxiety as the new academic year commences . Authored by Wong Kei-shun (黃基舜), the Association's Chief Superintendent for Services, the article acknowledges that parents face mounting pressures as school schedules resume . The piece highlights both emotional and financial challenges families encounter, while offering practical strategies for supporting children's adaptation .
Key Points
- Parents juggling work and childcare must adjust schedules, monitor homework, coordinate with schools, and ensure children maintain proper sleep routines
- Financial burdens include textbooks, uniforms, stationery, electronic devices, extracurricular activities, and tutoring fees, with estimates exceeding HK$1 million per child to adulthood
- Wong compares children's adjustment to a rubber band—relaxed during summer vacation, now being stretched again as school resumes
- Experts recommend specific questions like "How did you adapt today?" and "What made you happy?" instead of vague inquiries like "How was school?"
- Parents should validate children's feelings, avoid dismissive responses, and collaborate with schools when difficulties arise
Why It Matters
With Hong Kong families facing rising education costs and demanding schedules, the Association's guidance provides timely support for parents navigating the back-to-school transition . Early intervention through open communication can prevent escalation of childhood anxiety into more serious mental health concerns, aligning with the Association's mission of "mental health for all" since 1954 .
With Hong Kong families facing rising education costs and demanding schedules, the Association's guidance provides timely support for parents navigating the back-to-school transition . Early intervention through open communication can prevent escalation of childhood anxiety into more serious mental health concerns, aligning with the Association's mission of "mental health for all" since 1954 .