Back-to-School & Recovery: Navigating a New School Year

Author: Cindy Binions B.A. ICF

Just like that summer comes to a close and it is back-to-school season. A fresh start, new routines, and a packed schedule of classes, activities, and social events. While the beginning of the academic year brings energy and possibility, it can also stir up some unique challenges if you're navigating recovery. With the right tools and supports in place, the school year can also be a great opportunity to strengthen recovery skills and build lasting routines that support both your education and your well-being.

Here are some recovery-aligned strategies to consider that may help you start the school year grounded and supported:

First, lean into your support network and remember you don’t have to do this alone. Whether it’s your treatment team, your family, or close friends, these are the people who can help you stay connected to your recovery goals. Staying consistent with your care team gives you space to talk through challenges, acknowledge progress, and keep recovery top of mind. Vulnerability with trusted supports can deepen connection and make recovery feel more supported and you feel less alone.

Structure is often an important part of recovery and that includes structure around meals and snacks. You may want to work with your dietitian to come up with some doable on the go meal plan ideas and then time them based on your class schedule. It can often be helpful to eat with others when possible to reduce isolation and build support and accountability. As you move through the start of classes take note of any challenges (and wins!) to bring into sessions with your therapist or dietitian.

Aim to balance academics with rest and connection Time management can be challenging and it can be easy to fall into the all-or-nothing trap of overloading your schedule, burning out, or withdrawing completely. Instead this might look like setting boundaries with late-night studying or saying “yes” to a walk with a friend instead of another hour at the library. Recovery friendly balance includes downtime, so try listing a few go-to self-care activities you enjoy and include those in your schedule like you would any other class or commitment.

Lastly a gentle reminder that recovery requires time, intention, focus, and emotional energy. That might mean adjusting your course load or rethinking what “success” looks like right now. Is there an opportunity for a part-time schedule or taking a lighter semester? This may create extra space in your week for things like appointments, journaling, food prep and rest. Finding a rhythm that supports both school and recovery is an accomplishment!

You deserve a school year that supports all of you — not just your grades, but your healing, growth and recovery. Keep checking in with yourself, keep reaching out, and keep remembering that full recovery is not only possible, but it’s worth prioritizing.