As summer comes to an end it’s common to talk about back-to school activities in general. Shopping is one of the activities which is often talked about this time of year. After all, visiting the market to purchase new school outfits and accessories is fun for parents and kids alike.
However, if you’re hearing kids talking about their Back to School jewelry It’s crucial to remember that they’re talking about an exciting, new item of jewellery. It’s more of a troubling phrase (that isn’t a cause for concern at first) you’ll be hearing in conversations or via social media. What is a necklace for back-to-school?
What exactly is what is a “Back to School necklace”?
In the Urban Dictionary, a Back to School necklace is described as “another name for a noose. This is due to the utter despair you feel when school starts back up again.”
Examples of its use are: “I’m about to buy my Back to School necklace,” “I can’t wait to get a Back to School necklace,” “Thinking about that Back to School necklace,” ”
It’s true that a Back to School necklace may sound innocent to people who don’t know its significance, it’s in reality a call for help since it’s actually the code for hanging death.
However, once parents are aware of the concept, they will be in a better position aid.
What can parents do to discuss the latest trending necklace for Back to School with their kids?
If you’re not sure of how to tackle this, Samantha Westhouse, LLMSW Psychotherapist and maternal-infant health social work is a great choice for taking your child as the leader of the discussion. “Start off by saying, ‘I heard about this thing called Back to School necklaces–do you know anything about that?'” she suggests. “I think an open conversation is always beneficial. It’s always important to refrain from judgment so your child feels comfortable sharing how they are feeling.”
Simply taking the time to take a look will go a long way. “Parents should feel empowered to talk to their children about mental health in general,” says Emily Cavaleri, LLMSW an educator, social worker as well as a therapy for children and families. In relation to Back to School conversations, she suggests, “Share personal stories about how you felt starting school each year, especially if you had feelings of dread when you were a child. Let them know you will help them work through any feelings or get them professional help if needed.”
What is the reason there is so much anxiety as students get ready for the start of the school year?
There is a certain amount of anxiety because students are preparing to adjust to a new environment following the summer season. “Returning to school can feel overwhelming for a variety of reasons,” Cavaleri admits. “Some students struggle with thoughts of a new school, a new teacher, a new schedule, etc. Students are going from sleeping in and a relaxed schedule, to early mornings and busy days.”
In many cases, these difficulties appear to be insurmountable for students. In the end, as the CDC has found that “More than 1 in 3 high school students had experienced persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2019, a 40 percent increase since 2009.”
“I think it could be a combination of what socialization has looked like the last two years on top of the age,” Westhouse elaborates. “If we consider it today, 13-year-olds were ten in the year we found ourselves locked down. They were going to school on the internet and being left out of regular activities, sports and socializing. Also, add mass school shootings, and what we’ve seen throughout the past few years. All of it has an impression.
What are some signs of warning parents need to be looking out for?
“If someone is using this phrase, there is a high chance that they are struggling with their mental health,” Cavaleri states. “Whether the child you love is contemplating suicide , or uses this phrase to need for help, indicators you can observe includebeing alone for a long time being withdrawn, experiencing irritability frequently crying, crying easily sleepy more than normal or having difficulty sleeping, a loss of the interest in activities they were previously interested in or giving possessions away, and, in general an alteration in behavior.
Even if you’ve never heard your child say this expression, it could be a phrase they are using on their smartphones, Cavaleri points out. “They may use it via text or social media platforms,” she declares. “Parents should be aware of their children’s electronic use. Students of any age may be using this phrase and having these feelings, so look for signs in your children, from young children to adolescent age.”