As the new school year approaches, many students and parents are feeling stressed and anxious about the transition. However, with the right mindset and support, this can be a great opportunity to build community and make meaningful connections.

Building Community at School

Research has shown that when students feel welcomed and connected to their school community, their mental health improves, they do well academically, and are less likely to engage in high-risk behaviors. One way to build community is by encouraging teens to step outside of their comfort zone and try new things, such as joining a club or sports team, or volunteering for a cause they care about.

Additionally, teens can benefit from forming relationships with their teachers, who can provide support and guidance throughout the year. Office hours can be a great way to connect with teachers one-on-one and get help with homework or personal issues.

Embracing Weak Ties

Weak ties, or casual acquaintances, can also play an important role in building community at school. These relationships can provide a sense of belonging and connection, even if they are not as close as friendships. Teens can make an effort to say hello to their school janitor, strike up a conversation with a classmate, or participate in a group project to build these weak ties.

Online therapy can also be a helpful resource for students who are struggling with back-to-school stress or other mental health issues. Talkspace, an online therapy platform, provides tools and resources to help students and families build a support network and navigate the challenges of the new school year.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.