My kids are gearing up to go back to school, and we’re discussing their excitement, nervousness, and apprehension of returning the classroom. I couldn’t help but wonder what that might be like for us adults.
My youngest is excited to be attending the same school as her big sister. A “real school,” since she’ll be starting kindergarten! She says she hates homework and is not looking forward it. Obviously, she picked that up from her older siblings!
The summer was a long break for all my kids, and they all had fun with friends, being lazy and schedule-free, and hanging out and having fun.
We’ve been trying to get them back on a reasonable schedule, with a full night’s sleep. We’re also regularly discussing the upcoming school year and the challenges it’ll bring. They have their books and supplies, and they know they can speak to me and my wife and about anything.
I admit, I don’t take vacations. The longest vacation I’ve taken in the last 15 years was 3 days long. The break is necessary, and it’s something I need for my mental health. It’s a goal of mine to give myself longer, and more frequent vacations.
But there’s something refreshing about starting something new, and having a break to ponder and reflect on what’s coming. And with it, can come stress, anxiety, worry, nervousness, and fear.
As our kids head back to school, show them support, love, help them be prepared, and let them know you’re there for them to discuss all the struggles and challenges that lie ahead.
How was your summer? Did you take a vacation? What did you do?
Therapy Resources
In case you didn’t know, there are a handful of free resources we have available for therapists here on our website, and we’re continuously adding more. Here’s a short list of what’s available now:
1. Using Reflective in an evidence-based practice
A walk through and demonstration of how to get started using Reflective in your evidence-based therapy practice. Get the PDf here.
2. Using Reflective for CBT
A walk through and demonstration of how to get started using Reflective in your cognitive behavioral therapy practice. Get the PDF here.
3. Free 8-week CBT email course
A free 8-week email course introducing therapists to the foundations of cognitive behavioral therapy. It discusses the basics of cognitive restructuring, thought records, and the cognitive triangle. Sign up for the course here.
4. Socratic Questions Worksheet
Incorporate the Socratic Questioning therapy worksheet as a part of your cognitive therapy strategies to assist clients in confronting their irrational beliefs. Get the free PDF here.
5. Thought Record Worksheets
Two versions of CBT thought records worksheets: a light version, perfect for introducing patients to the process of identifying their thoughts and initiating journaling, and a full version for a more comprehensive approach. Both are designed with the therapist’s needs in mind, ensuring that you have the best tools at your disposal to support your clients in their therapy. Get the free worksheets here.
