Back to School Anxiety - The Sensory Nightmare Returns
Description: Schools are going back in a couple of weeks. And I'm having flashbacks. The dread. The anxiety. The uniform made of angry bees. The fluorescent lights that hum at a frequency only I can hear. This is what back-to-school feels like for kids whose brains weren't designed for it—and what parents can do about it.
Key Topics:
The chaos of the school environment (sensory war crime edition)
The numbers (persistent absence at 18.1%)
What back-to-school anxiety actually looks like
How parents can help (without losing their minds)
What I wish someone had said to me
If your child is struggling with anxiety, school avoidance, or other mental health challenges, CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) is the NHS service that can help.
What is CAMHS?
CAMHS stands for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. It's an NHS service that offers support and treatment to children and young people up to 18 years old who are experiencing challenges with their mental health and wellbeing. They also support parents, carers, and families .
How to get a referral:
To get help from your local CAMHS, your child will usually need to be referred by a professional. Self-referrals are also accepted in some areas .
The following professionals can make a referral for you:
Simply ask them: "Could you help us get a CAMHS referral?"
What happens next:
CAMHS receives the referral and reviews it (triage)
If accepted, they'll contact you for an initial assessment
The assessment explores your child's behaviour, mood, relationships, and impact on daily life
Helpful resources before your appointment:
📋 YoungMinds Parents' Guide to CAMHS: https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/parents-a-z-mental-health-guide/parents-guide-to-camhs/
A comprehensive guide for parents on what to expect, how to prepare, and how to work with CAMHS
👤 YoungMinds Young Person's Guide to CAMHS: https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/your-guide-to-support/guide-to-camhs/
A guide written for young people to help them understand what CAMHS is and what to expect
Tips for supporting your child before the appointment :
Share information about what's happening—briefly explain why the appointment is happening and what to expect
Reassure them—listen to any worries and focus on listening rather than trying to 'fix' it straightaway
Minimise stress on the day—plan ahead, leave plenty of time, and agree in advance whether they want you in the appointment with them
What to do while waiting:
If you're on a waiting list, you can use self-care strategies and access online support. Contact your GP or CAMHS team if your child's condition worsens while waiting .
If you need urgent help:
Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option. Available 24/7—you'll speak to a mental health professional who will listen and help you find the right support .
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This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. I am not a mental health professional. If you're struggling with your mental health or your child's mental health, please reach out to a qualified healthcare provider.
UK Crisis Support:
NHS 111 (select mental health option)
Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
YoungMinds Crisis Messenger: Text YM to 85258 (free, 24/7)
