Watching mental health in the back-to-school season

ORLANDO, Fla. – The first day of school can prompt a natural spike in nerves among children, and students may begin experiencing greater feelings of anxiety and low self-esteem as the school year approaches.A recent report released from the National Retail Federation indicates that households plan to spend an average of $890 on back-to-school items this year – a new record high! This is a challenging expense for many families, and first day of school jitters can be heightened when students also face uncertainty over school supplies, affecting their productivity and readiness to learn. To help combat this in the local community, Elite DNA Behavioral Health is collecting donations of school supplies at its offices in Maitland, Ocoee, Ormond Beach and Oviedo to benefit students in schools across Orange, Seminole and Volusia counties through the Foundation for Orange County Public Schools, Orange County Public Schools, Seminole County Public Schools and Futures Foundation for Volusia County Schools. This is part of a statewide collection effort happening the month of July at Elite DNA’s offices across the state. Elite DNA is calling on the community for support through donations of popular classroom items, including notebooks, college and wide-ruled paper, pocket folders, binders, pens, No. 2 and colored pencils, pink erasers, highlighters, pencil boxes, student scissors, glue sticks, wired headphones, sanitizing wipes and more. Cash donations and gift cards are also accepted for supplies to be purchased by Elite DNA staff.With Florida’s back-to-school tax-free holiday starting today, this topic is especially timely for those who may want to contribute to the final week of the back-to-school drive. In addition to the collection efforts, Elite DNA’s mental health experts can provide tips for parents and families to boost mental health throughout the final weeks of summer, keep children on track and how to help them prepare and talk to your kids about the upcoming school year. Mental Health America’s 2023 State of Mental Health in America reports that over 1 in 10 youth in the U.S. are experiencing depression that is severely impairing their ability to function at school or work, at home, with family, or in their social life. Yet, 59.8% of youth with major depression do not receive any mental health treatment. Additionally, YouthTruth’s 2022 Emotional & Mental Health student survey notes that “depression, stress, and anxiety” is the most prevalent obstacle to learning for secondary students at every grade level, six through twelve.A proactive approach to mental health is critical heading into the school year. Some tips Elite DNA can cover may include: Maintaining a regular school-day routine before the first day of school Meeting teachers and going to orientation so that your kids know how to find their classrooms before the first day Talking with your children about any worries or anxieties Practicing healthy coping strategies Watching for concerning signs Seeking professional help when needed