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Jan 7, 2025
While the holidays can be a wonderful time filled with fun, relaxation, and family, it can be challenging for some teens to transition back into their regular routines after the New Year. For parents and caregivers, this can also be a tricky period to navigate, especially with the added stress of possible finals or tests, and other large projects or events at school.
To make this time less stressful and more manageable for teens (and their caregivers) here are some practical tips from our teen experts at Mental Health Systems to help your teen ease back into their daily routine while supporting their mental health.
The post-holiday transition can be difficult for anyone, but teens, in particular, may struggle to shift gears from a relaxed vacation mode back to the structure of school and responsibilities. Flexibility is key during this period. Parents and caregivers should understand that their teen may need a few days to adjust. Instead of expecting them to jump straight back into their routine, you can work with them to set small, achievable goals to get back on track.
Has your teen been irritable as they’ve returned to school after the holidays? This can be common – especially if finals or other large tests or projects are looming. It’s essential to approach these moments with patience. Validate their feelings and acknowledge the difficulty of the transition. Phrases like, “I know it can be hard to get back into the swing of things,” can go a long way in fostering understanding and connection. You can also mention how it’s been hard for you to get back in routine at work to help relate to them.
During the holidays, your teen might have enjoyed staying up late, or sleeping in – not to mention feasting on holiday snacks and sweets. This can leave teens feeling out of balance. You can encourage them to re-establish a healthy routine by:
A gradual return to these habits can help teens feel more in control and prepared for their day-to-day responsibilities.
For many teens, the first few weeks of January bring the added stress of finals. Take time to ask your teen how they’re feeling about their upcoming exams. Open-ended questions like, “What subjects do you feel confident about?” or “What’s feeling most challenging right now?” can give you insight into their mindset and help you offer them support. Consider helping them create a study plan or suggesting breaks to avoid burnout.
January often includes additional days off for holidays or teacher in-service days. Let your teen know when their next break is so they have something to look forward to. Reminding them of these upcoming vacation days can provide motivation and reassurance as they work through their current challenges. Especially as the weather turns colder and more snow falls, highlighting these fun off-days can make the school calendar feel more manageable.
Final Thoughts
Helping your teen get back on schedule after the holidays doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By fostering a flexible, patient, and supportive environment, you can help them navigate this transition while maintaining their mental health. Encourage healthy habits, open communication, and a focus on balance to set the stage for a successful new year.
If you have concerns about your teen’s mental health, reach out to our experts. At Mental Health Systems, we have DBT programs specifically aimed at teens and adolescents!