Mental health expert has tips to help parents cope with sending kids to school
Back to school is often lauded as the “most wonderful time of the year” for parents, but if you’re a parent sending your little one to school for the first time, it can be a taxing experience. Psychotherapist Laurie Sharp-Page, CEO of Flourish Psychotherapy, has some tips for parents to help with this transition.
She says a common hurdle many parents face is reluctance to acknowledge the emotions they encounter.
“Embracing change often means grappling with the unknown,” Sharp-Page says. “As our children evolve and step into new life stages, myriad emotions emerge. It’s natural for these emotions to be complex and occasionally bewildering. It’s essential to allow ourselves this emotional journey, as it paves the way for better understanding and coping.”
Sharp-Page says it’s important for busy parents to take proactive steps to insulate their mental health during the chaotic back-to-school season. “Firstly, actively acknowledge and fully process every emotion that arises, without judgment. Carve out regular moments in your day for self-care, whether it’s a brief meditation, a calming tea break or a short walk. Emphasize and cherish the positive and exciting facets of this transitional time, using them as focal points when things feel overwhelming. Lastly, select an organizational system that resonates with your lifestyle and commit to it consistently; a structured approach can significantly reduce stress and ensure more harmonious days,” she says.
Don’t miss an opportunity to find take-away value from this time of transition. Sharp-Page says trying to push past one’s emotions and not taking time to reflect can hinder one’s ability to cope effectively with life’s diverse challenges.
“Now might be an opportune moment to assess your mental well-being and determine the resources, structures or support that would benefit you most,” she says. “If you’re keen on enhancing your coping skills, my book, Conscious Coping, provides insightful guidance.”
Parents seeking a community for support can look to Sharp-Page’s online group at ConsciousCoping.Club. “We’re dedicated to teaching the art of conscious coping, empowering you to bolster your mental health, diminish distress, boost resilience and cultivate a more harmonious life,” she says.
Flourish Psychotherapy has offices located throughout Ohio, including 125 E. Court St., Suite 350, in Cincinnati. “We believe in the potential of every individual to lead a balanced and fulfilling life, and this extends to how we support our staff in taking care of their own mental health,” Sharp-Page says. “Our team of dedicated professionals offers evidence-based therapies tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.”
