Preparing Youth for the Holidays: Emotional Well-being
As the holiday season approaches, you’re likely seeing the excitement build among young people. But it’s not always joy and anticipation; the holidays can bring stress and even emotional challenges. Preparing youth for this season isn’t just about festive activities or gift-giving, it’s about helping them build emotional well-being, resilience, and empathy to carry them through any highs or lows they may experience.
Empathy is your key tool here. The holidays can bring mixed feelings. For some it is excitement and joy for others it can be loneliness or frustration. Recognizing these emotions and giving space for them can make all the difference. When you lead with empathy, you allow open conversations that allow others to feel seen, heard, and understood. Here’s how you can start preparing youth emotionally for the holidays with a focus on their well-being.
Actionable Steps for Supporting Youth During the Holidays
1. Promote Open Conversations About Feelings: Encourage young people to share what they’re feeling. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are you feeling about the holidays this year?” or “What’s something you’re excited or nervous about?” This helps them recognize and process their emotions. When you create a safe space for honest expression, you reinforce that all emotions are valid and that they don’t have to put on a “happy holiday face” if they’re feeling otherwise.
2. Normalize the Complexity of Holiday Emotions: Sometimes youth feel that the holidays “should” be happy and worry that feeling anxious or sad is somehow wrong. By talking openly about the mix of emotions that come with the holidays. It is okay to miss loved ones, stress about financial situations, or just simply feeling overwhelmed. We need to normalize these experiences. Share examples (when appropriate) of how you managed complicated feelings during past holidays. Show vulnerability models for them, and that it’s okay to have mixed emotions.
3. Encourage Acts of Kindness: One way to channel holiday energy positively is by encouraging youth to engage in acts of kindness. Whether it’s helping a friend or volunteering, these acts can shift focus from holiday pressures to the joy of giving. It can also create positive feelings and a sense of connection that contributes to their well-being.
4. Reinforce Self-Care: The holidays can be overwhelming. Encourage simple self-care practices, Taking breaks from the chaos, spending time outside, or just having a quiet moment to read or relax. Remember, rest is important and that it’s okay to step away from the holiday hustle to recharge.
Through these small but impactful steps, you’re helping young people build a foundation for emotional resilience and empathy. The holidays can be a time of growth and connection. By showing them how to care for their minds and hearts, you’re empowering them to embrace the season. Using empathy for themselves and those around them.
