Separation Anxiety and Starting School
Starting school for the first time is a big milestone for both children and parents. It can be an exciting time, but it can also be a time of anxiety, especially for children who are not used to being away from their parents for long periods of time.
Separation anxiety is a normal and common emotion in young children. It is a fear of being separated from their primary caregivers, usually their parents. This fear can be triggered by a variety of things, such as a new environment, new people, or a change in routine.
For some children, separation anxiety may be mild and only last a few days or weeks. For others, it may be more severe and last longer. If your child is struggling with separation anxiety, there are things you can do to help them cope.
Here are some tips for helping your child overcome separation anxiety:
- Talk to your child about starting school. Explain what will happen on their first day, who they will meet, and what activities they will do.
- Visit the school before the first day. This will help your child get familiar with the environment and meet some of the teachers and staff.
- Start by leaving your child for short periods of time. Gradually increase the amount of time you spend away from them.
- Be patient and understanding. It takes time for children to adjust to new situations.
- Reassure your child that you will always come back for them.
If your child is still struggling with separation anxiety after a few weeks, talk to their teacher or pediatrician. They may be able to offer additional support or resources.
Here are some additional tips that may help your child overcome separation anxiety:
- Read books about going to school. There are many children's books that can help prepare children for starting school.
- Let your child bring a special toy or blanket to school with them. This can help them feel more secure.
- Encourage your child to make friends at school. Having friends can help children feel less anxious about being away from their parents.
- Praise your child for their efforts. Let them know that you are proud of them for going to school.
With time and patience, most children will overcome separation anxiety and adjust to school. However, if your child is struggling, don't hesitate to chat to us.
JHD Training Achieves Landmark "Outstanding with Commendation" for 10 Consecutive Years πΌπ Quality assurance and academic excellence are the bedrocks of professional training. Today, we are proud to announce that JHD Training has been officially awarded the highest accolade of "Outstanding with Commendation" spanning the last decade . To maintain this level of distinction for 10 years requires rigorous clinical standards, a robust curriculum framework, and an unwavering student-first culture. It proves that our training pathways—from foundational skills to advanced diplomas—consistently deliver elite-level preparation for helping professionals. Why professionals choose our September 2026 pathways: Proven Frameworks: A decade of external verification means our training methods are completely trusted. Practitioner-Focused: We focus on developing safe, ethical, and deeply grounded therapists. Flexible Delivery: Offering both day and evening options for our Level 4 Diploma to fit around active professional careers. If you are looking to advance your organization's mental health qualifications, or step into a new professional chapter yourself, train with a team operating at the absolute pinnacle of the sector. π§ For more information, please email: secretary@jhdcounselling.co.uk
In our previous post, we spoke about finding your rhythm through movement. This week, as we continue to mark Mental Health Awareness Week , JHD Training wants to address the invisible weight that so many of us carry: the pressure to be "fine." Whether you are a professional in a high-stress role, a parent supporting a family, or a student navigating your own path, societal expectations often tell us to be the "strong and silent" type. At JHD, we know that true strength isn't found in silence; it’s found in the courage to speak up. Recognising the Signs Stress and trauma don't always look like a crisis. Sometimes they manifest in subtle ways that we might dismiss: Physical Pain: Unexplained tension, headaches, or exhaustion can often be your body’s way of saying it has reached its limit. The Cycle of Silence: Withdrawing from friends or family because you feel like a "burden" is a common but dangerous path toward isolation. Time Blindness: Especially for those of us navigating neurodiversity, like ADHD, the feeling of being "stuck" or overwhelmed by manual admin can cause significant mental strain. Building a Safe Space For nearly a decade, JHD has been consistently rated "Outstanding" by external verifiers because we don't just teach counselling skills—we foster a culture of safety. We believe that "Order leads to growth" . By creating order in our minds and our environments, we create the space needed for healing. Take the Next Step If you have been waiting for a sign to prioritise your mental well-being, this is it. Listen to your body: If you are tired, take a break. Challenge the stigma: Whether it’s OCD, self-harm, or emotional abuse, no topic is too "heavy" for a professional to help you navigate. Invest in your future: Join a community that cares about your legacy.
As Mental Health Awareness Week approaches, the spotlight is on a theme that connects every one of us: Finding Your Rhythm . ο»Ώ At JHD Training, we have spent nearly a decade supporting the counselling journey of our trainees. Our constant "Outstanding" feedback from external verifiers isn't just about the professional success of our graduates; it's about the genuine care and support we prioritize for the people behind the practitioner. When life feels intense or overwhelming, it is easy to fall into a pattern of judgment—either for feeling too much or, conversely, for feeling "numb." This week, we want to lend our support to you, the public, by exploring simple, practical advice centered on Movement and Connection that helps you reclaim your pace without the weight of guilt. 1. Move for Your Mind (It's Not a Marathon) The term "movement" doesn't have to mean intense gym sessions. When you are struggling, even thinking about exercise can feel like a barrier. Overcome Motivation Slumps: If motivation is a hurdle, start with just one minute. A simple stretch, a quick walk in the garden, or even moving from your desk to a different chair counts. Grounding Through Action: Physical movement, however small, is a powerful form of grounding. It can shift you out of rumination and help reconnect your mind with the physical present. 2. The Courage to Connect Connection is another powerful pillar of well-being, yet it can be the first thing to suffer when we feel mentally exhausted. Reaching Out is Strength: The idea that you "should have it all together" is a stereotype we strive to break. If you are experiencing stress or anxiety, please reach out. Talking can prevent a feeling from escalating into silence and isolation. Listen Beyond the Words: If a loved one shares their struggle with you, your greatest gift is simply hearing their words without interruption or judgment. Being heard and validated is often the beginning of a healing path. Be Gentle with Yourself Remember, we are all human, and we all reach our limits. Healing is rarely a linear path. If your only movement today was taking a slow breath, that is a start. If you are struggling with deeper issues like the effects of trauma, please know that specialised support exists. We believe that order and compassion lead to profound growth. Find your rhythm this week, one small, gentle step at a time.