Managing Back To School Stress
The Bittersweet Goodbye to Summer
As the warm days of summer begin to fade and we adjust to hectic schedules, we notice the tension creep in too. While summer often brings relaxation, vacations, and family time, the transition into fall can stir up unexpected feelings of overwhelm. For moms juggling family life, entrepreneurs managing business goals, or anyone navigating multiple roles, end-of-summer stress is very real—and very common.
The good news? With a little support and some practical strategies, you can move into this next season with more ease, balance, and clarity.
Why the End of Summer Can Feel Stressful
The shift from summer to fall often comes with a perfect storm of responsibilities and emotional weight. Here are just a few reasons this season can feel more stressful than joyful:
Back-to-school prep: From school supplies to shifting schedules, it can feel like a full-time job.
Changes in routine: The laid-back days of summer are replaced with early mornings, structured activities, and packed calendars.
Shorter days and less sunlight: A subtle but powerful factor, this can affect mood, energy, and motivation.
Unfinished summer goals: Whether it was that beach trip, house project, or work milestone, not completing everything on your summer list can trigger feelings of guilt or disappointment.
Practical Coping Strategies for Seasonal Stress
Here are a few therapist-approved tools to help you manage the seasonal stress of back-to-school time:
Stick to a Gentle Routine
Establish a flexible daily rhythm that works for you and your family. Consistency can be grounding, especially when everything around you is shifting.Set Realistic Expectations
You don’t have to do it all. Pick one or two priorities each week—whether personal or professional—and give yourself permission to let the rest wait.Create Space for Yourself
Even just 10–15 minutes a day of you time — whether journaling, walking, or sipping coffee in silence—can do wonders for your nervous system. PS - it can happen while we’re waiting for school pickup!Practice Emotional Check-Ins
Take a moment to ask yourself, “What am I noticing in my body right now?” Naming your body sensations in turn helps you name emotions which reduces their power and allows you to respond, rather than react.Embrace Imperfection
Give yourself some grace and allow space for messy moments. You're not failing—you’re human.
These simple practices can help you cultivate more calm and control, even in the midst of change.
How EMDR Therapy Can Help with Seasonal Transitions
If this time of year feels heavier than you expected, you’re not alone. Therapy for stress relief — approaches like EMDR — can help uncover the deeper roots of your anxiety, shift old patterns, and strengthen your capacity to handle change.
As a therapist specializing in EMDR, I work with you to help you:
Process past stressors that may be resurfacing
Learn practical tools to calm the mind and body
Build emotional resilience for future transitions
Develop self-compassion and confidence in handling life’s curveballs
You deserve support that honors your unique challenges — and helps you move forward with more peace and presence.
Ready to Feel More Grounded This Season?
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the back-to-school rush or the emotional weight of this seasonal shift, you're not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it by yourself.
Click here to schedule a free consultation and discover how therapy can help you manage stress, regain balance, and step into fall feeling more supported and centered.
You’ve made it through summer—now let’s help you thrive this fall.