For many parents, it is a time of relief, as their children get settled in the school routine. For many students: excitement to get back to school to see their friends and engage in their clubs and other activities. The excitement of a new academic year is often tempered by a host of concerns shared by parents, students and educators alike. From mental health pressures to exam concerns, to financial strain, the back-to-school season in 2025 is more than just a return to routine—it’s a complex balancing act. Dr George stated that the ‘high number of youth callers highlights the urgent need for mental health services that are affordable, accessible and culturally sensitive’.