Lincoln, NE — As students prepare their return to the classrooms, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recognizes the critical role physical, mental, and emotional well-being play in helping students learn, adapt, and succeed.
While the back-to-school season is a time of excitement and fresh beginnings, it can also bring stress, anxiety, and pressure for students and families.
“The back-to-school season can be overwhelming for students and their family members. Changes in routine, new expectations, and social pressures can impact mental well-being,” said DHHS Director of Behavioral Health, Dr. Thomas Janousek. “We encourage families to check in on their student’s well-being early, often, and throughout the entire year. Strong support systems for physical, mental, and emotional wellness from the start helps students of all ages be more confident and resilient throughout the year.”
Start of the new school year checklist for success:
- Schedule yearly physicals and required immunizations. Communicate with your teacher or school nurse about necessary medications.
- Prioritize consistent sleep, regular physical activity, nutritious meals, and hydration to support both emotional regulation and overall wellness.
- Set a routine that promotes balance and reduces screen time, helping students manage homework, socializing, hobbies, exercise, and rest.
- Do not be afraid to ask for help. Reaching out to a trusted advisor, teacher, family member, or friend can make a meaningful difference.
- Revisit the importance of hand washing hygiene at school and in public.
- Find activities for stress management both students and families can enjoy, such as mindfulness, outdoor time, creative outlets, or quiet breaks.
- Talk to students about the importance of safe travel to and from school, being aware of their surroundings, stranger danger, and emergency plans.
“Across all the DHHS divisions, we are united in our commitment to keeping Nebraskans safe, healthy, and ready to learn, offering resources and services that meet people where they are and help every student thrive. When students are well-rested, well-nourished, and well supported, they are better able to focus, retain information, and engage with their peers and teachers,” said Janousek.
Resources:
- Call, text, or chat 988 for emotional support or thoughts of suicide
- Same Day Scheduling and Walk-In Access Behavioral Health services dhhs.ne.gov/SameDay
- Nebraska Family Helpline – Any question, any time. (888) 866-8660
- If you suspect abuse or neglect, call the Adult and Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at (800) 652-1999 or visit neabusehotline-dhhs.ne.gov/ to make a report
- If you have questions about which immunizations your child needs, contact your health provider or local health department dhhs.ne.gov/CHPM%20Maps/LHDcontactMaster.pdf
- Use NESIIS to securely download immunization records at dhhs.ne.gov/ImmunizationRecordSearch
- Parents can apply for various benefits for their household through the iServe portal. Visit iserve.nebraska.gov to apply or update your information
- Individuals with a disability can access resources explaining the transition from school to adult services at: dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/DDA-Resources.aspx. Teachers also can access information about supporting students with a disability.
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