Starting school, whether for the first time or the last, can bring a range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety to stress. Developing a positive mindset to manage these feelings is pivotal to getting the most out of the school year and maintaining your mental health. 

Here are a few ways to prepare yourself for heading back to school.

• Discover what excites you about school. Remind yourself of the positives when thinking about starting school again. Are you looking forward to seeing old friends or making new ones? Perhaps there are topics you are eager to learn about. Consider making a list to return to whenever you feel down about returning to school.

• Create goals. Homework, tests and long school days can be stressful, but having goals can help you stay motivated.  Consider asking yourself what you hope to gain from the coming school year. Do you want to ace all your classes? Try a new sport? Meet someone new? Make a list to help you keep track throughout the year.

• Practice self-care. Adjusting to a new schedule or routine can be challenging. Remember to take care of yourself, especially in the first few weeks, as you get used to attending school again. Consider setting time aside in the evenings to do something fun and take a break from learning.

• Collect supplies you like. Having supplies you enjoy can help you become excited to start school again. Consider purchasing notebooks you find aesthetically pleasing or multicolored pens for note-taking–anything that will help you shift your mindset toward schoolwork.

• Communicate with your teachers and loved ones. Starting school can bring up various emotions. Let those around you know if you need help with the idea of starting school again. For example, if you are anxious about knowing where to go and what to do, your teacher may be able to explain expectations and other details beforehand. 

As you navigate the school year, remember that keeping a positive mindset will greatly impact your experience. Embrace all the challenges and opportunities to come by focusing on what excites you, prioritizing self-care and remembering to reach out to others when you need support.