Many kids are missing school due to mental health issues like anxiety and exhaustion, a new survey finds. The poll of over 1,000 parents revealed 30% whose child missed school from fear or anxiety missed more than a week. 42% said their child claimed to feel physically unwell, while 20% cited being too tired to attend. Experts say physical symptoms can often stem from underlying mental health concerns, like social anxiety, test worries, or undiagnosed learning disabilities. Avoiding these issues can actually worsen anxiety over time. The foundation advises parents to keep communication open so kids feel comfortable discussing their real concerns. Pursuing therapy is recommended to help build confidence and coping skills to get students back in the classroom. “The more we avoid things that make us anxious, the bigger the anxiety gets,” said pediatric psychologist Ariana Hoet. (Parents)
PHONE TOPIC: Tell us about the most fun you ever had while skipping school