As summer winds down and a new school year begins, preparation goes beyond fresh supplies and schedules—it’s about protecting your mental health. At Forge Health, we understand that the transition from summer to school can bring back to school stress for both teens and parents. Knowing this, we offer in-person and virtual care for adults, along with specialized virtual therapy for teens and adolescents, to help families navigate this season with confidence and support.
➡️ Learn more about our adolescent therapy services (ages 14–17) in NJ Virtual and PA Virtual. ⬅️
For Parents: Supporting Your Teen’s Mental Health
A new school year often brings excitement but can also spark anxiety, uncertainty, and stress. As a parent, your support is key in promoting your child’s emotional well-being.
- Be a steady support system. Encourage open conversations and let your teen share their thoughts without fear of judgment.
- Recognize signs of distress. Shifts in sleep, appetite, mood, or behavior may indicate issues like anxiety, depression, or burnout.
- Prioritize honest communication. Talk about school pressures, friendships, and mental health openly.
- Seek professional help if needed. Forge Health offers accessible, confidential virtual adolescent therapy designed specifically for teens.
For Teens: Coping with Back-to-School Stress
Starting a new school year can feel overwhelming—whether it’s academic expectations, changing friendships, or social pressures. Remember, it’s normal to have back to school stress, and you don’t have to face it alone.
- Recognize your feelings. Stress and anxiety are common; learning healthy coping strategies makes a difference.
- Watch for warning signs. Persistent sadness, isolation, or trouble concentrating may mean it’s time to seek support.
- Ask for help. Talking to a parent, teacher, or mental health professional is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Handle peer pressure wisely. Build connections with positive, supportive friends who respect your boundaries.
- Embrace change. With the right tools and mindset, you can adapt to new routines and challenges while protecting your teen’s mental health.
At Forge Health, we believe mental health is the foundation for success in school and in life. Whether you’re a parent supporting your child or a teen managing back-to-school transitions, our team of professionals is here to help with virtual therapy for adolescents and adults that fits into your busy schedule.
Forge Health is here to support you, wherever you are. Whether you’re a parent looking to guide your child or a teen seeking help, our compassionate care team is ready to walk with you through the school year and beyond. Click here to learn more.
About Forge Health
Our multidisciplinary team is led by mental health clinicians and addiction recovery specialists who have helped shape the field of evidence-based care for mental health and substance use. We provide comprehensive outpatient care that’s convenient to access, affordable to use, and customized to your unique needs.
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