Rising school-related stress: how to spot the signs and help your child

As the academic year progresses, the increasing pressures faced by pupils — ranging from demanding curricula to social challenges and unstable home lives — are starting to take a toll on their mental health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health issues among children and adolescents are increasing worldwide, affecting approximately one in seven young people. In South Africa, estimates suggest that the prevalence of these issues may be even higher, with many difficulties directly linked to stressors such as school pressure, bullying, and family instability.

School-related stress can manifest in both younger children and teenagers, yet its early signs are often mistaken for simple growing pains or behavioural changes. “Children don’t always have the words to explain what they’re feeling,” explains Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “That’s why adults need to pay close attention to changes in behaviour, mood, or routine, as these are often the earliest warning signs that a child is struggling.”

Spotting the early signs of stress

Identifying stress early allows caregivers to intervene before it escalates. Here are some key indicators to watch for:

Behavioural Changes

• For younger children (ages 6-12): Look for sudden clinginess, separation anxiety, avoidance of school, heightened irritability, or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
• For teenagers (ages 13-18): Withdrawing from family or friends, a sudden drop in motivation, skipping school, or spending excessive time in isolation can be telling signs.

Physical Symptoms

Stress often manifests as physical ailments that have no clear cause. Frequent headaches, stomach aches, insomnia, nightmares, fatigue, or generalised body aches can all signal that a child’s mental load is overwhelming. A notable pattern is when children frequently feel “sick” on school mornings but show no such symptoms on weekends, hinting that stress is at play rather than illness.

Emotional Warning Signs

Children under stress can experience emotions that they struggle to articulate. Increased worry, sudden emotional outbursts, low self-esteem, feelings of being overwhelmed, or excessive sensitivity to criticism are hopeful indicators. Teens may express emotional distress through frustration and irritability. Comments like, “I can’t do this” or “School is too hard” shouldn’t be brushed off, as they typically reflect deeper feelings of inadequacy or isolation.

Academic Performance

A decline in academic performance can signal stress rather than laziness. Issues with concentration, procrastination, or falling behind in classes are key symptoms that indicate children are having trouble coping with overwhelming school demands. This is especially concerning if accompanied by a sudden drop in marks.

Social Problems

Peer relationships are another common source of anxiety, from bullying — either in person or online — to the pressures of fitting in. Parents should pay attention to any signs of avoidance of friendships, reluctance to engage in group activities, or a tendency to spend time alone. Often, changes in social behaviour can go unnoticed unless carefully examined.

The Impact of Home Stress

Compounding the stress of school are challenges in the home environment, such as unsettled routines, financial strain, long travel times, or family conflicts. When children feel instability at home, managing school becomes increasingly daunting. Younger children may regress in behaviour, while teenagers may emotionally withdraw or seem disengaged.

Strategies for Managing School-Related Stress

Recognising these signs is crucial, and timely intervention can make a significant difference. Here are some strategies for parents:

• Encourage open conversations about feelings without fear of judgement.
• Establish consistent routines for sleep, mealtime, and homework to instill a sense of security.
• Maintain communication with teachers and be involved in school activities.
• Promote balanced diets, daily exercise, and set limits on screen time to help regulate mood.
• Introduce stress-reducing practices such as breathing exercises, journaling, or mindfulness.
• If stress persists beyond two weeks or disrupts daily life, consult a healthcare professional.

School-related stress is a formidable reality that, if left unaddressed, can hinder a child's well-being, confidence, and academic success. Early recognition and intervention can significantly influence outcomes, equipping children with the tools to cope with challenges both in and out of the classroom. Understanding, consistency, open communication, and professional support when necessary are key to fostering resilience in our children.

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