A United Front: How a Strong School Connection Can Prevent Student Burnout

While parents play a central role in preventing student burnout, they are not alone in this battle. A clinical psychologist emphasizes that a strong, supportive connection between a student and their school can be a powerful protective factor, transforming the educational environment from a source of stress into a source of support.
Meghna Kanwat, a clinical psychologist, advises parents to help their children “maintain [a] strong school connection (so the student feels supported rather than simply evaluated).” When students feel that their teachers and school staff see them as whole individuals and care about their well-being, it significantly reduces the anxiety associated with academic performance.
This sense of support can be fostered in several ways. Parents can encourage their children, especially teenagers, to communicate with their teachers about their workload or struggles. They can also model a positive and collaborative relationship with the school, viewing educators as partners in their child’s development rather than adversaries.
A supportive school environment is one where mental health is openly discussed and resources are readily available. It’s a place where asking for help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness. When students feel this psychological safety, they are more likely to seek support before their stress escalates into full-blown burnout.
Parents can advocate for such environments by participating in school meetings and supporting mental wellness initiatives. By working together, parents and educators can create a community that not only challenges students academically but also nurtures their emotional and mental health, ensuring they feel supported from all sides.