The warm days of August mark the end of summer break for most kids across the country. And while some children may protest the return of homework, most grab their book bags and return to school.
But for some kids, the anxiety of school triggers such a negative reaction that they refuse to go. Daily fights and tears overwhelm parents and children alike. Parents – and even schools – are left wondering how to help children who absolutely refuse to attend school.
For families facing this daily struggle, Ascension's Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, Hoffman Estates, Illinois, offers the School Refusal/School Anxiety Program. From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, struggling students attend classes at the hospital, where they work with trained teachers as well as psychiatrists, nurses, nutritionists and expressive therapists. The students have a safe learning environment where they complete their regular coursework AND learn the skills necessary to fight the anxiety that prevents them from going to school.
The program began seven years ago with four students. Now the program works with 35 children. While most students are from the greater Chicago area, the program has helped students from across the country. Associates usually work with the students for two to four weeks before helping them transition back to their local schools.
"I did not want to go to school. I hated school. I would sob every morning before I had to go to school," said attendee Ellie Cole, a 16-year-old high-school student. She credits the program with helping her get back to her regular school.
"What is so great about the program is that there are so many different people here that are going through exactly through what you are," she said. "And they also teach you how to deal with it."
To learn more, watch this engaging video.
