10 Tips to Support Anxious Teenage Daughters and their School Refusal

Understanding Your Daughter's Anxiety and School Refusal

As parents, it can be heart-wrenching to see your teenage daughter struggle with anxiety, especially when it prevents her from attending school. Anxiety can feel overwhelming, leaving them feeling isolated and unable to connect with friends. If your daughter is falling behind, it's crucial to understand the root of her anxiety, whether it's academic pressures, social fears, or a combination of factors.

Practical Tips to Support School Attendance

1. **Start Small:** Encourage her to attend just one class or a short portion of the day to gradually acclimate her back to the school environment.

2. **Establish a Routine:** A consistent daily routine can help alleviate anxiety by providing structure. Consider implementing morning rituals that she enjoys, like a favorite breakfast or some quiet time before school.

3. **Communicate Openly:** Create a safe space for her to express her fears about school. Listening without judgment can empower her to share more.

4. **Collaborate with Teachers:** Reach out to her teachers or school counselors. They can offer support and may provide accommodations to help her transition back to school.

Managing Anxiety at Home

5. **Mindfulness Practices:** Introduce her to mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or meditation. These can be excellent tools to help her manage anxiety when it arises.

6. **Limit Social Media:** Encourage healthier screen time habits. Instead of scrolling through social media, suggest engaging in hobbies that keep her busy and are more uplifting and positive.

7. **Encourage Friendships:** Help her reconnect with friends through small gatherings. Start with inviting one friend over for a movie night– this can ease her back into socializing without overwhelming her.

8. **Promote Physical Activity:** Physical exercise has been shown to reduce anxiety. Encourage her to participate in activities she enjoys, such as dancing, yoga, or even just walking in the park.

Building Resilience and Hope

9. **Explore Support Groups:** If her anxiety persists, enrolling her in a support program can make a world of difference. Consider signing her up for the Take Action Anxiety Group program offered by Mindaras Psychology. This program is available both online and in-person, providing a supportive environment where she can share her feelings and learn coping strategies.

10. **Stay Positive:** Lastly, remember to maintain a hopeful outlook. Anxiety can be managed, and with the right support and strategies, your daughter can flourish academically and socially.

It's essential to remind her that she's not alone and that many teens face similar struggles. By providing unwavering support and understanding, you can help her navigate this challenging time.

**Reach out when you feel ready to get her the psychology support to help her thrive.**

Mindaras runs a group Take Action program to support teenagers managing their anxiety. This is a highly regarded evidence-based program based on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. It's run both as online or in-person formats to suit your teen's preference and circumstances. To join the waitlist for this excellent program, click here.