BC Children’s Hospital offers advice as families prepare for back-to-school
By Contributor
As children prepare for the transition to school, BC Children’s Hospital is providing advice to families to help navigate this period, noting that the volume of emergency department visits of patients presenting with mental health concerns increases during this time.
Last year, BC Children’s saw a 37 per cent increase in the volume of emergency department visits of patients presenting with some mental health concerns in September, when compared to August1. Signs that a child or youth may be struggling to the point of concern include anxiety and school refusal, changes in eating patterns, mood swings (withdrawing or behaviour changes), having academic or social difficulties at school, having an increase in physical ailments, or sleep disruptions.
“While the numbers of children requiring care are low, and most children cope with this transition without difficulty, heading back to school can be a difficult and emotional transition for some children,” says Roberto Sassi, psychiatrist-in-chief, BC Children’s Hospital. “Parents and caregivers should talk openly with their children about any feelings of anxiety, worry or being nervous, and acknowledge those emotions. If your child is expressing strong emotions, remain calm, listen with compassion and show empathy. There are many resources and supports available on the BC Children’s website that can help guide such conversations and help build resilience.”
Steps that families can take to promote wellbeing include:
- Promoting physical health and well-being: When children and youth have their physical needs met, this supports good mental health and reduces the risk of serious illness
- Encouraging a healthy sleep routine: Gradually return your child to their school-day sleep and wake routine a couple of weeks ahead of their official back to school date, if possible, and aim for a consistent routine. Even a gradual transition in the week leading up to school can be helpful in the long-run.
- Creating safe and supportive environments: Talk openly and honestly with children to address their concerns and validate their feelings
- Speak to children about technology: Social media and other technology can be overwhelming for children and lead to unhealthy habits. It is important to manage digital usage through limiting time, turning off notifications, and finding safe spaces both on and offline.
While the increase in children presenting with mental health concerns from August to September is expected due to numerous factors, BC Children’s Hospital recognizes that for most children, school can be a source of comfort and stability. It is important for children and families to seek help if mental health challenges are getting in the way of day-to-day activities, like school and spending time with friends. Talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner or get help from a mental health professional. Visit your nearest emergency department if your child is experiencing a medical emergency, including a mental health crisis.
More information and other wellness resources can be found on the BC Children’s website: https://www.bcchildrens.ca/health-information/health-and-well-being-guidance
- In August 2025, BC Children’s saw a total of 75 visits with the following reasons as a chief complaint: depression/suicidal/deliberate self-harm, violent/homicidal behaviour, pediatric disruptive behaviour, anxiety/situational crisis, bizarre behaviour, concern for a patient’s welfare, anorexia, and hallucinations/delusions. In September, this increased to 103 visits.
