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Feeling the Back-to-School Strain? Here’s What You Can Try

After the relaxed, carefree weeks of the summer holidays, September means many parents find themselves juggling mounting to-do lists, busy schedules and financial pressures - all while adjusting to new routines.

Here at Kalms, we understand that the back-to-school transition can leave you feeling stressed, overwhelmed and stretched in every direction. Research indicates that around 80% of parents experience feelings of anxiety about the new school year.[i]
 

What is back-to-school stress?

Tension often builds as summer comes to a close and the demands of a new school term begin. For parents, this can include:

  • Organising uniforms, stationery and packed lunches
  • Managing new drop-off and pick-up times  
  • Balancing work, household duties and childcare
  • Navigating financial pressures linked to school costs

Stress can affect parents in different ways; some may feel irritable or short-tempered, others may notice headaches or forgetfulness. Over time, these feelings can build into a sense of being overwhelmed.
 

Signs you might be feeling the pressure

It’s important to spot the early signs of stress so that you can take simple steps to ease the load. Some common indicators to look out for include:

  • Struggling to concentrate or stay organised
  • Feeling more anxious or emotional than usual
  • Tension in the body, such as headaches or muscle aches
  • Trouble relaxing even when you have downtime
     

Strategies to ease back-to-school stress

At Kalms, we know how demanding this time of year can be. Here are some simple but effective ways to help reduce stress and restore calm during this adjustment period:

1. Plan ahead where possible: Prepare school bags, uniforms and lunches the night before to avoid chaotic mornings. A weekly meal plan can also save time and reduce daily decision-making.

2. Re-establish routines gradually: In the week before school starts, encourage earlier bedtimes and set consistent wake-up times. This helps children, and parents, adjust more smoothly.

3. Share the load: If possible, coordinate with your partner, friends or family members. School runs, homework supervision and after-school clubs don’t always need to fall on one person’s shoulders.

4. Protect moments of calm: Schedule small pockets of downtime for yourself, such as 10 minutes with a book, a walk or a cup of tea. Short breaks can help reset your mood and energy.

5. Set boundaries: It’s okay to say no to extra commitments if your plate already feels full. Protecting your time and energy is an essential part of managing stress.

By putting these small strategies into practice, you can ease the transition into the new school year and create a calmer, more balanced routine - leaving you and your family better equipped to enjoy the year ahead.
 

Try Kalms

If the back-to-school season leaves you feeling overwhelmed, try Kalms Day, which is used to help relieve the symptoms of stress and mild anxiety.

Kalms Day contains valerian root which is traditionally used to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with stress, such as mild anxiety. It is derived from the roots of the Valeriana officinalis plant, native to Europe and Asia.

For more information on the Kalms range, click here.
 

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Posted by Emily Garfield
1st September 2025

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