The Emotional Side of Back-to-School: Why You’re Feeling It and What to Do

By Stacie Rolfe, LICSW, PIP – The Therapy Spot

If your to-do list feels a mile long lately, you’re not alone.

As summer fades and the school year kicks into gear, many families find themselves buried under a mountain of forms, supplies, schedules, sports, and shifting routines. Even if you’re not directly tied to the academic calendar, this seasonal shift can bring a wave of stress that’s hard to ignore.

Back-to-school season isn’t just about logistics, it’s emotional. It’s a transition.And even positive transitions can feel overwhelming.

I vividly remember sending my only child off to college. After 19 years of caring for her every day, the moment I let her go felt like stepping into the unknown. Had I prepared her enough? Was she ready? The questions swirled, and the worry was constant. But within just a few weeks, I realized much of that anxiety was mine to release. She was adjusting beautifully, proving in her own quiet way that she was ready.

Why You Might Feel Overwhelmed Right Now

Maybe you’re:

• Managing your child’s adjustment to a new grade, school, or routine

• Balancing your job with early mornings, carpools, or after-school activities

• Comparing yourself to other parents who seem to be “doing it all”

• Feeling like you're dropping the ball everywhere you turn

Sometimes, it’s not one big thing, it’s the steady build-up of small things that wear you down.

Signs You’re Carrying Too Much

Stress has a way of creeping in quietly before making itself known. You might notice:

• Constant fatigue or difficulty sleeping

• Increased irritability or emotional outbursts

• Trouble focusing or remembering things

• Thoughts like, “I can’t keep doing this”

These aren’t signs of failure, they’re signals. Your mind and body are asking for care, space, and attention.

How to Lighten the Load

You don’t need to overhaul your life to feel better. Start small:

• Let go of perfection. “Done” is better than perfect.

• Build in breathing room. Say no when you need to.

• Stay connected. A quick text or five-minute vent with a friend can be grounding.

• Pause for yourself. Even two quiet minutes can shift your whole day.

• Reach out. Whether it’s extra help at home or a conversation with a therapist, you don’t have to carry everything alone.

  
  

Therapy Can Help

If this season feels especially heavy, therapy offers a place to slow down, reset, and reconnect with what matters most. You don’t have to power through. Peace and clarity are still possible one small step at a time.