Helping Teens Survive the Winter Blues

Helping Teens Survive the Winter Blues

It’s no secret that this is one of the hardest seasons for students. Coming back from a two week break, going into finals, and the gloomy winter weather has an effect on their mental health. The happiness and excitement of the holiday season ends and then what? They have months of darkness and less breaks from school in the spring semester. However, the way we pour into them can help keep them sane in a hectic time.

I think it is so important to truly understand the needs and wants of teens right now. Most of the time they don’t want to be social but they absolutely do want to know you care. Buying them a treat, sending them an encouraging text, watching a movie together, baking, or giving them a hug are just a few ways to help support them. Make sure that your students has someone they can talk to in times of need, whether it’s a parent, relative or close friend. Therapy is also a very good option to help your kids learn to be whole and healthy. If you aren’t sure where to start with therapy or are unsure about what therapy is all about, reach out and we can help you get connected to therapists we know in the area. And finally, allowing them to get out of the house to be with friends is so important. This is so helpful because of the connections teens have with each other. Connecting with others their own age and taking some time away from family helps them to know and feel understood; that their feelings are valid and others know what they’re going through.

I say all of these things, but we know how hard it can be to connect with students. Between their stress and moods they are very unpredictable and sometimes all of these things won’t work. Sometimes you just have to keep doing what you’re doing even if the response you’re getting back isn’t what you want. The consistency and love of an adult or friend is such a powerful gift to your teens.