Helping Teens Manage Stress During the Holidays

As adults we all know how fun but stressful the holidays can be!  There are many demands on our time that are unique to this time of year.  Between preparations for family and friend get-togethers, food, shopping, and travel, there are many things taking up your time while still trying to maintain your regular schedule.  Your teens are also feeling the stress as they have these added demands as well. Some signs that your teen may be under stress or feeling anxious are mood and/or behavioral changes, losing interest in things, and more frequent complaints of health issues such as stomach aches or headaches. If you notice that your teen seems to be showing signs of stress or anxiety there are some ways to help them work through it.

• Talk to them about practicing deep breathing to help them relax.
• If all of the activities are getting to be too much for your teen, talk with them about the ones that are most important that they attend or be a part of and then discuss an alternative for the other activities.
• Even though your teen is likely spending a great deal of time with family during the holidays, allow them the time and a chance to connect with their friends.
• Encourage them to stay active and get exercise.
• Talk to your teens about the things that they are grateful for (such as having that special time with family and friends during the holidays) and share yours as well!

 
References:
Chamorro, C. (2021, December 14). Tips for teens: Surviving and thriving during the holidays. Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center, https://www.teenhealthcare.org/blog/teen-holiday-stress

Luminis Health. 2019, December 16). Tips for helping teens manage stress during the holidays. https://living.aahs.org/children/health/tips-for-helping-teens-manage-stress-during-the-holidays/