In this episode, I’m breaking down school avoidance and school refusal in teens, including why it’s on the rise, what’s happening underneath the behavior, and practical, compassionate ways parents can support their teen without escalating conflict.
If your teen is melting down in the mornings, complaining of feeling sick, shutting down, or outright refusing to go to school, this episode will help you understand what’s driving the behavior and how to move forward without shame or fear.
In this episode, I cover:
- What school avoidance and school refusal really mean (and why it’s not laziness)
- The main drivers: anxiety, social stress, academic overwhelm, and burnout
- Why morning power struggles make avoidance worse
- A clear 3-step plan: calm, clarify, and coordinate
- How to support your teen without reinforcing avoidance
- Dr. Lisa Damour’s shame-free “compulsory buffet” reframe
- Practical ways to make school more manageable without lowering expectations
If your teen is struggling with anxiety or school avoidance, get support through my Rise Up and Ignite coaching programs to help them build confidence, take action, and thrive.
✅ Book a free discovery call to learn more and see if Rise or Ignite is a fit.
Sources Referenced in This Episode
- Stony Brook Medicine – “What is School Avoidance and School Refusal? A Parent’s Guide” (Aug 1, 2025)
- Kids Mental Health Foundation – “New Survey Reveals Top Reasons Why Kids Avoid Going to School” (Press Release)
- Children’s Hospital Colorado – “Treating School Refusal in Youth” (Primary Care Article)
- Children’s Hospital Colorado – “How to Handle School Refusal” (Just Ask Children’s)
- TIME Magazine – Lisa Damour, “How to Help Teenagers Stay Motivated at School” (Mar 8, 2023)
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) – “4 Strategies When Your Child Refuses to Go to School” (Sep 19, 2024)
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