A Parent’s Back To School Guide
Every season brings new challenges and opportunities. Summer is ending, and the school year is beginning. With new schedules and kids in school, this is a great time to press the reset button and start healthy habits. At West Michigan Psychological Services, we want to provide you with support to nurture every area of your life. Here are a few tips to keep your overall wellness a priority during this season!
Start a routine
As summer draws to a close, life tends to pick up speed with children returning to school, vacations ending, and work filling our schedules. Establishing a routine at the start of a new season can provide structure and consistency amidst busyness.
Incorporate time for healthy meals, physical activity, and relaxation into your routine. This could mean meal prepping, cooking with a loved one, joining a gym, or simply walking before dinner. For relaxation, watch a favorite show one day and journal the next. By fitting these habits into your schedule in a way that fits your interests, you can consistently improve your well-being. It’s essential to continue strengthening your connections with yourself and others, even during busy periods.
Set your children up for success
As the school year begins, it’s the perfect time to set your child up for success. If your child is showing signs of ADHD, struggling academically, or facing social challenges, it might be time to consider an ADHD assessment. Early intervention with the support of a psychiatrist or healthcare provider can equip you and your child with valuable tools and insights. By seeking an evaluation, you can work closely with a therapist, primary care doctor, and your child’s school to create a personalized plan that ensures your child thrives.
As we transition into a new season, it’s important to check in with your child and ask how they feel about school and friends. By asking and observing their emotional and behavioral tendencies, you can address potential issues early and provide your child with the support they need. At WMPS, we offer ADHD assessments, ongoing therapy support, and optional medication management. We’re here to join your team and help you provide the best possible support for your child.
Stay up to date on your health
Your health is vital in every facet of life! Don’t neglect it—schedule your dentist, eye, and doctor appointments, and keep up with therapy. To be there for your loved ones and enjoy life, you need to prioritize your well-being. It may be easy to push off appointments, but taking care of yourself helps you be the best version of yourself.
Staying up to date on vaccines, regular check-ups, and early detection screenings helps ensure a healthy, happy life. Having a primary doctor allows you to have an open dialog to discuss health concerns and receive personalized advice unique to your health risks and needs. Don’t wait for serious issues to arise—be proactive about your health.
Stay organized
To combat procrastination and boost productivity, consider using a calendar or weekly planner. By writing down appointments, meetings, and activities, you can keep track of your commitments and manage your time effectively. This organization helps you stay on top of your tasks, reduces stress, and enhances your efficiency and productivity. With a clear plan, you’ll be better equipped to meet your goals and take well-deserved breaks!
Learn about yourself
Just because life gets busy doesn’t mean you can’t use this season to learn more about yourself. Exploring therapy can help you learn more about your mind, personality, and approaches to life. Therapy can lead to a better understanding of yourself, improved relationships, decision-making, and personal growth.
Psychological testing is another way to discover new insights, diagnostic clarity, and solutions for overcoming challenges. By learning more about how you operate and what makes you unique, you can begin to work towards self-acceptance and effective strategies for accomplishing your goals!
We want to help!
At West Michigan Psychological Services, your mental wellness is our top priority. We understand that nurturing your mental health impacts every aspect of your life. Our diverse team is dedicated to supporting your family’s needs and helping you achieve your goals. Whether your child needs an ADHD assessment, therapy services, or you’re working through past trauma or current mental health challenges, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We offer valuable resources and strategies tailored to your needs. If you’re seeking to understand yourself better and improve your relationships with others and yourself, we’re here to assist with that, too. No matter where you start, we’re committed to supporting you throughout your journey. Connect with us today!
