#6 School Anxiety, Avoidance and Refusal - What's Behind It and What to Do About It

School is back in full swing, and so is everyone's anxiety! We discuss the challenges kids, teens and parents face as they reintegrate back to school after the summer break. We delve into the various reasons for school avoidance and refusal, which are critical in understanding what is actually behind it. We conclude with a discussion on what to do about it -- mainly the importance of early preparation, open communication, accessing school resources, and when necessary, use of therapy and medications for depression and anxiety in children and adolescents. Resource Links: AACAP Facts for Families on Schools: https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Resource_Centers/Schools_Resource_Center/Home.aspx Do's and Don'ts of School Avoidance: https://schoolavoidance.org/advice-from-a-fellow-school-refusal-parent-on-how-to-help-them-get-back-to-school/ IEP Request Template Letter: https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/publications/template-letter-for-a-request-for-assessmentHave questions for us, or feedback about our podcast? Send us a message!