Back-to-school season is often painted as exciting and fresh—but for many kids, teens, college students, and even parents, it also brings back-to-school anxiety.

If you’ve ever tried to push away panic or anxiety, you know it can backfire. The more you fight the feeling, the more intense it becomes.

Emotional regulation—the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions—is a critical skill for mental health and well-being.

High-functioning anxiety is tricky. It hides behind a mask of productivity, accomplishment, and an outward appearance of control.