Every September feels the same, right? New backpacks, new teachers, newroutines—and let’s be real, new stress. For students, it’s the pressure of harder classes, friend drama, and endless homework. For parents, it’s the juggling act of carpools, lunches, and late-night “Mom, I forgot I had a project due tomorrow!” moments. It’s exciting, yes. But it can also be overwhelming.
And here’s something we don’t talk about enough: September is also Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. So, while we’re busy with supply listsand schedules, it’s also the perfect time to pause and check in on something far more important—our mental health.
🎒 For Students: Finding Your Balance (Real Talk Edition)
Okay, students—let’s keep it real. Back-to-school season can feel like alot. New classes, teachers, sports, and friend drama? Yeah, it’s giving major overwhelm vibes. But here’s the deal: you don’t have to let stress run the show.
Set your vibe. Pulling all-nighters and showing up half-asleep? Not the move. A decent routine (yes, even sleep) will make life way easier.
Check your feels. Saying “fine” when someone asks how you are? That’s not a real answer. Try being honest say “today sucked” or “math gave me beef.” Being real takes the weight off.
Find your outlet. And no, endless scrolling doesn’t count. Shoot hoops, dance, paint, journal or even smash ice cubes in the sink (seriously, try it). Whatever helps you release, do more of that.
For Parents: Creating a Safe SpaceThat Actually Works
Parents, here’s the truth: your home sets the tone. Teens may act likethey don’t want structure, but deep down, they need it—and they need to know it’s safe to ask for help.
Create space for honesty. If your teen admits they’re struggling, fight the urge to “fix it” right away. Listen first. Call responses open doors; panic closes them.
Build healthy structure. Bedtimes, mealtimes, and check-in times might feel small, but they create stability in an unpredictable world. Teens thrive when they know what to expect.
Model grace. Let your teen see you manage stress, admit mistakes, and keep moving. It shows them it’s okay not to have it all figured out.
When safety and structure come together, teens learn that home is both a launch pad and a landing place, a foundation for resilience.
💡 Why Suicide Awareness Matters Right Now
Here’s the heavy truth: suicide is the second leading cause of death for teens and young adults. That’s not just a statistic it’s a reminder that a lot of people are carrying invisible struggles.
But here’s the hope: talking about it saves lives. You don’t needa degree in counseling to make a difference. A simple, “How are you really doing?” can open a door that changes everything. Even if your friend or child seems fine, check in anyway.
And if you, or someone you know, feels like life is too much, there’s help:call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It’s free, confidential, and available 24/7.
🧨 A Space to Let Go: Smash RX Feel Free Friday
Now let’s talk about letting it out. Imagine this: instead of bottling upstress, you grab a bat, smash a plate, scream into the void, and walk out feeling lighter. Sounds wild? That’s the point.
At Smash RX, we’ve built a safe space where it’s not just okay to let go, it’s encouraged. Every third Friday, we host Feel Free Friday, an afternoon where people come together to laugh, cry, smash, and release whatever’s been weighing them down.
This month, on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 2–5 PM, we’re honoring Suicide Prevention Awareness Month with plate therapy, 10minutes in the rage room, and most importantly, a reminder that none of us have to carry the weight alone.
Sometimes healing looks like a conversation. Sometimes it looks likebreaking a glass bottle. Both are valid. Both matter. And at Smash RX, you can have both.
Final Thought
Back-to-school doesn’t have to mean back-to-stress. With open conversations, supportive environments, and safe ways to let go, students and families can face this season stronger, together.