Beating the back to school blues – for moms

Let’s be honest, kids aren’t always the only ones dreading back to school time.

The end of summer means it’s time to sharpen pencils, pack lunches, and send the kids back to school. While plenty of parents breathe a sigh of relief, for many moms, this time of year comes with its own emotional hurdles. From worrying about bullies to adjusting to a suddenly quiet house and feeling those early signs of seasonal blues, you’re not alone in navigating these mixed emotions. Here’s how to tackle three of the most common struggles moms face this time of year.

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1. Bullies and Academic Issues: Managing Worries for Your Child — and Yourself

If your child has faced bullying or academic challenges in the past, the back-to-school season can trigger a wave of anxiety. It’s tough not to let your own heart ache at the thought of your little one struggling socially or falling behind in class.

What you can do:

• Start Conversations Early: Don’t wait for problems to pop up. Ask open-ended questions about their day, who they sat with, what they liked, and what made them uncomfortable.
• Meet the Staff: Introduce yourself to teachers, counselors, and principals early on. Establishing a rapport helps you stay informed and makes it easier to advocate for your child if issues arise.
• Practice Self-Care: It’s okay to feel anxious — but don’t let it consume you. Make time for your own hobbies, social connections, or even just a quiet coffee by yourself. Remember, a calm and grounded mom is a powerful source of support.

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2. The Empty Nest… Sort Of: Adjusting to a Quieter House

Sure, the noise and chaos of summer break can be exhausting, but when the house suddenly feels too quiet, many moms are surprised by how much they miss the company of their kids. Even if you still have a full schedule, that absence can leave an emotional gap.

What you can do:

• Reclaim Your Space: Turn the kid-free hours into productive or peaceful time. Tackle projects you’ve put off or indulge in something just for you — a new book, a workout class, or catching up with a friend.
• Plan Micro-Reunions: Have something to look forward to after school. A favorite snack, a short walk together, or a movie night can help ease both your and your child’s transition back to routine.
• Connect with Other Moms: You’re not the only one feeling this way. A coffee date or group chat with friends going through the same thing can do wonders.

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3. When Summer Ends: Bracing for Seasonal Blues

For many moms, the end of summer isn’t just about back-to-school shopping and earlier bedtimes. It can also mean the start of shorter days, colder mornings, and the creeping return of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) symptoms.

What you can do:

• Get Outside While You Can: Take advantage of the remaining sunny days. Even 15 minutes of natural light in the morning can help regulate mood-boosting hormones.
• Create a Fall Routine You Love: Instead of dreading the season change, plan activities you genuinely enjoy — apple picking, cozy movie nights, fall baking, or scenic walks through changing leaves.
• Know the Signs: If you find yourself feeling persistently low, irritable, or exhausted as the seasons shift, don’t brush it off. Light therapy, vitamin D supplements, or a chat with your healthcare provider can make a huge difference.

Also check out our previous back to school article for more.