Families Encouraged to Make Mental Health Part of Back-to-school Checklist

HOLYOKE — As students prepare to return to the classroom, behavioral health experts at MiraVista Behavioral Health Center in Holyoke and TaraVista Behavioral Health Center in Devens (the Vistas) are encouraging families to make mental health part of their back-to-school preparations.

While the start of a new school year often brings excitement and opportunity, it can also create stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges for children and adolescents. New routines, academic expectations, social pressures, changing friendships, extracurricular activities, and the anticipation of a new school year can all affect a young person’s emotional well-being.

“Back-to-school season is about much more than backpacks and school supplies,” said Karyn Rossacci, chief Nursing officer for the Vistas. “It’s also an opportunity for parents and caregivers to check in on how their children are feeling emotionally. A simple conversation can open the door to understanding, reassurance, and, when needed, support.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, youth mental health continues to be a significant public health concern. Anxiety, depression, and other behavioral health conditions can affect a student’s ability to learn, develop relationships, and fully participate in school and everyday life. Recognizing concerns early and connecting young people with appropriate care can have a lasting impact.

“Children don’t always have the words to explain what they’re experiencing,” Rossacci said. “Sometimes they communicate through changes in behavior, sleep, appetite, or school performance. Parents know their children best. If something feels different, trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to seek guidance. Early intervention can make a tremendous difference.”

As families prepare for the new school year, the Vistas encourage parents and caregivers to watch for signs that may indicate a child is struggling, including:

• Persistent sadness, anxiety, or irritability;

• Withdrawal from friends, family, or favorite activities;

• Changes in sleep or eating habits;

• Difficulty concentrating or declining school performance;

• Excessive worry about returning to school;

• Emotional outbursts or significant changes in behavior; and

• Expressions of hopelessness or feeling overwhelmed.

While some nervousness about returning to school is normal, persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored.

Through MiraVista Behavioral Health Center and TaraVista Behavioral Health Center, the Vistas provide specialized inpatient psychiatric care for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing acute behavioral health needs. Both hospitals also offer an innovative direct-admission process that allows many patients who meet clinical criteria to access inpatient psychiatric care without first waiting in a busy emergency department, helping individuals and families receive timely, compassionate treatment.

To further support families, the Vistas have released a complimentary back-to-school parent toolkit, designed to help parents recognize warning signs, start meaningful conversations about mental health, establish healthy routines, and understand when and where to seek professional support. The toolkit is available to parents, schools, pediatric practices, community organizations, and referral partners throughout Massachusetts and New England.

“Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and understood,” Rossacci said. “Mental health is just as important as physical health, and no family should feel they have to navigate these challenges alone. Whether a child is experiencing everyday anxiety or a more significant behavioral health concern, help is available, hope is real, and reaching out is a sign of strength.”

The back-to-school parent toolkit, along with additional information about behavioral health services and direct admission, are available at www.miravistabhc.care and www.taravistabhc.care.