Back to school anxiety is normal, says Shauna Hamm, Student Services Manager for Border Land School Division.

She said during times of transition or change, feelings of worry or anxiety are normal reactions. However, sometimes anxiety can interfere with the brain's regular functions, she added.

Effects of feeling anxious in a short period of time can include stomach pains, a change in breathing, sweaty hands, and a red face, said Hamm. Over time, these symptoms could build up and affect sleeping patterns and cognitive processes, decision making becomes challenging, and you can become disorganized and forgetful.

Hamm has advice for students experiencing more anxiety than usual leading up to the new school year.

"It's important to talk to someone when you're noticing those feelings. When you talk about your feelings of anxiety it can help you ... have more control over how you're responding to them," she said.

Thinking back to a time you felt worried and worked through the situation can help. Talking to someone and having them remind you of a time you overcame a similar situation can help as well.

Additionally, identifying things that worry you can help make anxiety more manageable. Breathing exercises and journaling might also alleviate the distress.

For parents who want to help their child feel more secure for the upcoming school year, there are steps that can be taken to ease the transition. For example, parents can visit the school with their children ahead of time, or let the teacher know that student is feeling worried about returning to the classroom.

Also, Hamm noted there are other resources in place such as guidance counsellors and resource teachers if more help is needed. Schools will often send out letters during the summer and before the school year to let students know what to expect.

Most importantly, Hamm believes that relationships play a big part in making people feel validated and supported.

"When people feel understood and like their feelings are a normal response to a situation in life, and they feel validated, very often the feelings feel more manageable and people kind of get back to their more competent and resilient self," she said.

If anxiety is an ongoing issue, there are community mental health resources available where students can learn strategies to deal with anxiety, said Hamm.