Menu
School Refusal in Children and Teenagers
School refusal is a common problem among children and adolescents. It presents as a persistent refusal to attend school or difficulty attending school, often accompanied by severe emotional distress or anxiety. It can have significant impact on their academic, social, and emotional development.
There are many factors that can contribute to school refusal, such as:
- Anxiety and Depression
- Family issues, parental conflicts
- Bullying in school, difficulties adjusting to new school
- Learning difficulties
- Medical conditions
It is important to recognise that school refusal is different from truancy, which is a deliberate act of disobedience or defiance, but rather a coping mechanism that children use to deal with overwhelming stress or anxiety. In a way, it is quite understandable for humans to want to avoid stress and difficult situations, and children may not fully appreciate the implications of missing school.
If your child is experiencing school refusal, it is important to seek help early. A mental health professional can help identify the underlying causes of school refusal and develop a plan to address these issues.
The first step in treating school refusal is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the child’s emotional and psychological state. This involves conversations with the child, parents, and teachers to gain a better understanding of the child’s experiences and behaviours. It also involves observation of the child’s mental state and patterns of interaction within the family.
Once the assessment is complete, the psychiatrist or psychologist can develop a personalized treatment plan for the child. This may involve a combination of individual therapy, family therapy, lifestyle changes and medication. The goal of treatment is to help the child develop coping strategies to manage their stress and anxiety, and to address any underlying psychological or emotional issues that may be contributing to school refusal.
Individual therapy can be helpful for children who are experiencing anxiety or depression. A therapist can help the child identify negative thoughts, tackle unhelpful behaviours and develop effective coping strategies to manage their emotions. When parents and siblings get involved in therapy, they will learn how to support the child and create a more positive and supportive home environment.
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage the child’s symptoms of anxiety or depression. Medication can be particularly effective when used in combination with therapy, as it can help the child feel calmer and more focused, making it easier for them to engage in therapy and develop coping skills.
Get Help Today
Dealing with school refusal can be frustrating for both you and your child. Leaving it unaddressed can lead to long term consequences. By taking action now, you can prevent your child from missing out on valuable school experiences and falling further behind.
Reach out to our caring psychiatrist or psychologist today and we will guide you through this challenging journey. With the right treatment and support, your child can learn to manage anxiety and stress more effectively and develop the skills they need to succeed in school and in life.
Adults
- Adjustment Disorders and Stress Management
- Adult ADHD
- Anxiety Disorder
- Depression
- Eating Disorder
- Expatriates and Long-Term Visitor’s Psychological Well-Being
- Functional Bowel Disorders
- Grief and Survivorship
- Insomnia and other Sleep Disorders
- National Servicemen’s Psychological Well-Being
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Quitting
- Relationship Problems
- Schizophrenia & Delusional Disorders
- Sexuality Concerns