It’s That Time of Year Again for First Nations Youth: Back To School

It’s that time of year again: back to school, and not all parents are excited about it. Moving to a bigger city for school can be an overwhelming experience, especially for students from rural reserves. Students and their families are often faced with the difficult decision of deciding whether to stay at home, comforted by the familiarity of being surrounded by their family and friends, or to leave everything behind to pursue an education. ​

Stressors for a high school student

For a teenager just starting high school or returning to a larger city for a new school year, all of the changes that occur can make them feel very anxious, and can lead to major culture shock. All of these feelings and emotions can hit them hard, emotionally and physically. It is common for high school students to feel:
·         lost and confused
·         lonely and unhappy
·         a longing for their community, family members, and friends
·         worried that they will not be able to cope with the new demands
·         worried that they will not "fit in"
 
Signs of stress
 
Some ways in which teenagers show their stress, include:
·         irritability and short-tempered
·         disagreeableness or not wanting to talk
·         drastically changing behavior
·         stomach pains, headaches, or not wanting to go to school
 
How can parents help?

Parents, of course, experience stress as well. Parents may struggle when their teens leave the community, have an abundance of homework, and when school can be such a major source of stress for their teenagers. However, parents can help ease their teenager’s transition (and their own) by being open and understanding. Here are some tips that parents can implement to help their teenager adjust to their new environment:
 

• Reassure your teenager that it is normal to feel confused and unsure at first and that most others will be feeling the same way.
• Reassure your teen that they already know how to make friends because of the friendships they have made in the past.
• Help your teenager keep in touch with old friends and be welcoming to new friends.
• Help your teenager set up a homework routine that helps them to manage their homework and still have time for relaxation and friends.
• Be a good and supportive listener but try not to give advice too quickly. Problems that young people can solve for themselves help to build confidence.
• Encourage your teen to join school activities: a great way to make new friends.
• Do not forget that despite their age, teenagers still need parental affection, love, and support. So even if they are far away, try to call, text, e-mail, or visit when you can. Show them you care and that you are always available to them no matter how far away they may be.
• Additionally, do not hesitate to reach out for help, for yourself or your teen. Professionals are always available for extra assistance if you or your teen are struggling.