It starts with a stomachache. Or maybe tears at the school gate. Over time, it becomes a pattern — your child simply can’t go to school. You’ve tried reasoning, rewards, and routines, but nothing works. You may be raising what’s known as a “school refuser,” and you’re not alone. School refusal is on the rise across Australia, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s leaving families feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do.

What Is School Refusal?

School refusal is when a child experiences severe emotional distress about attending school. This distress can look like anxiety, panic attacks, physical symptoms like nausea, or emotional shutdowns. It’s not the same as truancy — the issue isn’t defiance but distress. Many school refusers want to go to school but feel they genuinely can’t.

Why Is It Increasing?

Recent Australian data shows school refusal is becoming more common. A Senate inquiry into school refusal noted that up to 5% of students may be affected, with rates climbing since COVID-19. Attendance rates have dropped across the country, and more than 80,000 children are estimated to be disengaged from school. Educators are also reporting a sharp rise in student mental health concerns, which are often linked to school refusal behaviours.

What Causes School Refusal?

• There’s no one-size-fits-all explanation, but research points to several contributing factors:
• Anxiety or depression
• Learning or developmental differences (e.g. ASD, ADHD)
• Sensory sensitivities or school environment stress
• Bullying or peer conflict
• Difficulty transitioning back after illness or lockdown

For many kids, the classroom feels overwhelming or unsafe — emotionally, socially, or physically.

What Are the Risks of Prolonged Absence?

Children who miss extended time from school can experience increased social isolation, academic struggles, and worsening mental health. Without intervention, this can lead to early school leaving and long-term impacts on employment and well-being. That’s why early recognition and support are so important.

What Does the Research Recommend?

• Early intervention: Don’t wait for the problem to resolve on its own. The earlier support is provided, the better the outcomes.
• Family and school collaboration: Research supports a whole-team approach. Psychologists, schools, and families should work together to create a gradual return plan.
• Flexible schooling options: Part-time attendance, remote learning, or therapeutic programs can offer a stepping stone back into education.
• Therapeutic support: Evidence-based therapy can help children understand and manage the emotions behind their refusal, while also supporting parents.
• Trauma-informed teaching: Schools with trauma-aware staff and flexible classroom environments are more successful in supporting returning students.

How Therapy from Home Can Help

At Therapy from Home we can coach parents on how to support their child emotionally and practically.  Our approach is gentle, affirming, and non-judgemental.

Final Thoughts

If your child is refusing school, you’re likely feeling exhausted, worried, and unsure of the future. But there is support — and hope. At Therapy from Home, we’re here to help make that journey possible.