How do I know if my child’s stress is “normal” or a red flag?

Every student feels stress sometimes—before a big test, after a bad grade, during group projects with that one kid who never helps. But if your child is constantly overwhelmed, avoiding school, struggling to sleep, or having major mood swings, it may be more than just a tough week. Red flags include ongoing irritability, physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches, and total burnout over small tasks. Trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” it’s okay to step in, ask questions, and even loop in a professional—support is a sign of strength, not overreaction.