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Back to school with mental health in mind

Free tools for kids, teens, and the adults who support them

children write at school desks

As the school year begins, students and families face a mix of excitement, pressure, and uncertainty. Whether you’re a young person navigating new challenges or a caregiver looking to support your child’s emotional well-being, Mental Health America is here to help with practical guidance, free tools, and resources for every step of the journey.

young person sits at table holding a tablet

For youth: Take care of your mental health

Changing friendships, getting your brain back into “learning mode”, and balancing school with other responsibilities are just some of the ways that starting a new school year can be stressful. You’re not alone; your feelings are valid, and help is available. Keep reading for:

Ideas for handling overwhelming feelings that you can use right away
Tips to manage tough situations like trouble fitting in, a hard home life, and being bullied
Signs of anxiety, depression, psychosis, and what to do next
Advice on when and how to ask for help
Crisis support if things feel overwhelming

Get more youth resources

Take a mental health test

laptop open to MHA Screening site If you or a friend are struggling with your mental health, take an anonymous, free, and private mental health test. It only takes a few minutes, and after you are finished, you will be given information about the next steps you can take based on the results.

Take a screen

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For parents and caregivers: Support that makes a difference

Going back to school can be a time of tough transitions. Sometimes it’s hard to tell the difference between the stress of growing up and the early signs of mental health conditions. We can help with: