September can feel like a fresh start. New classes, new routines, different teachers, changing friendships and expectations can all arrive at once. For some young people, that feels exciting. For others, it can feel like a lot.
At Forever 19 Community Interest Company, we believe young people should never feel they have to carry everything alone. Looking after mental wellbeing is not about getting every day right. It is about noticing how you feel, being kind to yourself and knowing where you can turn when things become difficult.
Why going back to school can feel difficult
Even when someone is looking forward to seeing friends again, returning to school can bring worries about workload, friendships, fitting in, new teachers, exams or simply getting used to early mornings again. A difficult first few days do not mean the whole year will be difficult.
Giving yourself time to settle matters. Small routines can make the transition feel more predictable: getting clothes or a bag ready the night before, eating something before school where possible, allowing enough time in the morning and making space to unwind after the school day.
You do not have to have everything figured out
There can be pressure at the start of a new term to appear confident and organised. Real life is rarely that tidy. You might be excited about one part of school and worried about another. You might have a good day followed by a difficult one.
Try to focus on the next manageable step rather than the whole term at once. One lesson, one lunchtime, one conversation or one day is enough to begin with.
Keep people around you
Support does not always begin with a big conversation. It might be walking into school with a friend, sitting with someone at lunch, telling a parent or carer that the day was harder than expected, or speaking to a trusted member of staff.
YoungMinds advises young people who are struggling at school that they can start by speaking to a trusted adult such as a form tutor, pastoral lead, school nurse or SENCO. Schools may also have counselling, pastoral or other wellbeing support available.
Make room for life outside school
School matters, but it is only one part of life. Time with family, friends, sport, gaming, music, walking, hobbies or simply having some quiet time can help keep the week in perspective.
There is no perfect routine. A useful routine is one that gives enough structure to make the day feel manageable while still leaving room to rest and enjoy things.
When something does not feel right
If worry, low mood or another difficulty is affecting everyday life, learning or relationships, it is worth telling someone rather than waiting for things to become worse. A trusted adult at school, parent, carer, GP or another appropriate professional can help you work out what support is available.
The NHS explains that children and young people's mental health services can offer different kinds of support depending on individual needs, and that professionals including GPs, teachers, school nurses and social workers can help connect young people with local services.
One honest answer can be a start
One of the messages at the heart of Forever 19 is that it is okay not to be okay. Ethan's legacy reminds us why honest conversations matter and why we should make it easier for young people to say when a day is difficult.
You do not need the perfect words. If somebody asks how you are, an honest answer can simply be: “Today has been hard.” That can be enough to open a door.
And if you notice a friend who seems quieter, overwhelmed or simply not themselves, you do not have to fix everything. You can notice, listen and help them reach someone they trust.
Where to find support
If you are struggling, consider speaking to a trusted adult, your school or college pastoral team, school nurse or GP. NHS mental health information and YoungMinds also provide guidance about support for children and young people.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. If urgent mental health help is needed but it is not an emergency, use NHS 111 and select the mental health option where available.
Forever 19 is a Community Interest Company. This article provides general information and encouragement and is not medical advice.
For more practical guidance from Forever 19, read our articles on supporting a young person who is struggling at school and checking in on a friend without trying to fix everything.
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