A Crofton Pharmacy Wellness Focus.
Stress Less. Live Well.
Start the School Year Strong.
Back-to-school season is exciting, but it can also be stressful.
New schedules, early mornings, homework, transportation, sports, extracurriculars, financial pressures, and routine changes affect the whole household. Students adjust to new teachers and expectations, while parents, caregivers, and school staff manage increased demands.
Some stress is normal. But when it becomes ongoing, it can impact sleep, mood, focus, energy, appetite, blood pressure, and overall well-being.
This season, make stress management part of your family’s wellness routine.
Know the Signs of Excess Stress
Stress looks different for everyone. Watch for:
Children and teens may also show stress through behavior changes, declining school performance, sleep disruption, or withdrawal from activities.
Quick Tip: Don’t wait for burnout; talk about stress early and often as a family.
6 Simple Ways to Lower Everyday Stress
01
Protect Your Sleep
Consistent sleep and wake times help ease the school transition. Build a calming bedtime routine and reduce screen time before bed.
02
Get Moving
Movement supports mood and stress relief. Walking, cycling, sports, dancing, gardening, or a 15-30 minute family walk all help.
03
Eat for Wellness
Busy routines can lead to skipped meals, fast food, and excess caffeine. Aim for:
Fruits & vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts & seeds, healthy fats, water, antioxidant-rich foods; berries, citrus, leafy greens, tomatoes, peppers, beans e.tc.
04
Build a Quiet Time
Even 5 – 10 minutes helps. Try deep breathing, prayer, meditation, stretching, reading, music, or screen-free time.
05
Plan Ahead
Reduce morning stress by preparing backpacks, lunches, clothing, medications, and schedules the night before.
06
Stay Connected
Ask: “How are you doing?”
Then take time to listen.
Strong connections at home, school, and in the community help ease stress.
Stress, Nutrition & Antioxidants
Stress is more than a feeling. During physical or psychological stress, the body can develop oxidative stress – an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidant defenses.
The body has natural antioxidant systems, and good nutrition helps support them. A balanced diet rich in whole foods and plant-based nutrients is an important part of overall wellness.
Food first. Supplements only when needed. They may help when dietary intake is insufficient or when individual needs require it.
Antioxidant Nutrients Worth Knowing
Vitamin C
Supports protection against oxidative damage and normal immune function.
Sources: Citrus, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli.
Vitamin E
A fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage.
Sources: Nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, avocado, leafy greens.
Glutathione
Often called the body’s “master antioxidant,” glutathione is naturally produced in our cells and helps neutralize oxidative stress, recycle other antioxidants, and support normal detoxification and immune function.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Naturally produced and involved in energy production and antioxidant activity.
Supplement use should be individualized based on health status and medications.
Selenium
Essential trace mineral used in antioxidant enzyme systems.
More is not better—excess can be harmful. Prioritize dietary sources.
Think “Food First ; Supplements When Needed”
Whilst a balanced diet is the foundation of good nutrition, there are times when the amount or level of certain nutrients needed cannot be adequately met through food alone. In these situations, supplements may be recommended to help fill nutritional gaps and support individual health needs.
Supplements are not a replacement for sleep, healthy eating, exercise, connection, or medical care.
Before starting any vitamin, herbal product, or supplement, especially if you take prescription medications, ask your pharmacist.
Your Back to School Stress-Less Checklist
When Stress Becomes More Than Everyday Stress
Lifestyle changes can help everyday stress, but persistent or severe anxiety should not be managed with supplements alone.
Seek professional support if stress or anxiety is ongoing, interferes with school, work, relationships, or sleep, causes significant physical symptoms, or disrupts daily life.
Ask the Crofton Pharmacist
Visit our pharmacy team.
We can review your vitamins and supplements, check for duplication, identify medication interactions, and help you make informed choices based on your needs.
This school year, don’t just prepare the backpack; prepare the body and mind.