It is officially the start of the new school year in our home. For me, the last few days have been packed with back-school-shopping for my new middle schooler, orchestra supplies, theater fundraisers, and monitoring my own mental health as a single parent during this time.
For you, though, I imagine the back-to-school transition is exciting and kind of terrifying. You might feel academic pressure, worry about having all of your school supplies ready, making friends, liking your new teachers, or how you will fit in.
These days, I’ve been reminiscing about my school days with my daughter, and exploring the link between emotions, relationships, and learning. It all started when my daughter came home from school after her first day of middle school crying because teachers couldn’t pronounce her name and her peers were making fun of her. It was so hard hearing this! She has recently made new friends and is optimistic about the future.
Making friends wasn’t naturally easy for me, especially as a shy and introverted young girl. In college, I learned a hard lesson about waiting for other people to come to me – it was overwhelming, lonely and depressing. However, in recent years I’ve learned that making friends doesn’t typically “just happen” — sometimes building genuine relationships requires courage, effort, and intentionality. I’ve also learned that being part of a community can make a significant difference no matter what you’re going through.
Forming new connections will be crucial to your educational journey, so it’s worthwhile to put in the effort. Here are some suggestions I have for building new connections in school this year:
- Remember to have fun, slow down and savor the opportunities that exist around you
- Show up and be a friend – don’t think about popularity, be open to everyone you meet, try complimenting someone, ask their name, sit with someone you see sitting alone, and initiate conversation
- Be authentic and true to yourself – show your personality through your style, try to avoid comparing yourself to others because It’s so much easier than trying to be someone else!
- Join clubs and participate in extracurricular activities you enjoy
- Challenge yourself to explore new spaces – trying new things can also help you meet new people and expand your social circle.
- Get to know your school’s counselor – school counselors help you learn how to manage relationships and understand yourself better
You’re not alone in this journey – together we can find connection and purpose!
Your Voice is Your Power (YVYP) is a mental health resource hub designed for youth and young adults who are looking to begin or continue to grow in their journey as a mental health leader. Click here to learn more
