With the festive season in full swing, it’s important to acknowledge the impact of this time on the mental health of our youth. While the holidays are often seen as a time of joy and family gatherings, for many teenagers, it can be a period of increased stress and emotional challenges.
While holidays are festive, the disparity between media’s portrayal of joy and teenagers’ real experiences can heighten their stress
The Dual Nature of the Festive Season
Research has shown that the holiday season can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression in teenagers. A study by Sansone and Sansone (2011) highlights how the holidays can intensify stress due to family dynamics, financial pressures, and the disruption of routine, all of which can impact young people’s mental health (Sansone & Sansone, 2011).
Moreover, the expectations surrounding the festive season can create a significant amount of pressure for young people. The portrayal of the holidays as a time of universal happiness and familial harmony can deepen feelings of isolation for those who don’t experience this. The Journal of Affective Disorders reports that the discrepancy between reality and idealized holiday portrayals can contribute to feelings of disappointment and inadequacy in teenagers (Journal of Affective Disorders, 2013). It’s crucial to recognize these potential pressures and validate the diverse experiences teenagers may have during this period.
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Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword
The role of social media during this time can be complex. On one hand, platforms like Instagram and Snapchat offer a way for teens to connect with friends and share festive experiences. However, the “highlight reel” nature of social media can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. A study by Primack et al. (2017) found a strong association between social media use and depression among young adults (Primack et al., 2017).
Additionally, the increased downtime during holidays can lead to more time spent on social media. This can exacerbate issues like cyberbullying, which, according to the Cyberbullying Research Center, sees no holiday hiatus (Cyberbullying Research Center, 2023). The intensity of social comparison and exposure to online bullying can peak during these times, as teens are more frequently online, sharing and viewing holiday experiences. Balancing online interactions with offline activities is crucial for maintaining a healthy digital diet.
Tips for Parents and Guardians
At Chatstat, we understand the importance of supporting our youth during these times. Here are a few tips for parents and guardians:
- Open Communication: Encourage open discussions about feelings and experiences. As highlighted by the American Psychological Association, communication is key in understanding and supporting mental health (American Psychological Association, 2023).
- Monitor Social Media Usage: While it’s a tool for connection, excessive use can lead to negative feelings. The Cyberbullying Research Center emphasizes the importance of monitoring and discussing social media use with teenagers (Cyberbullying Research Center, 2023).
- Encourage Offline Activities: Encourage teens to engage in offline activities to balance their online presence. Activities like reading, outdoor sports, or family games can provide much-needed breaks from digital screens. As noted by the Child Mind Institute, offline activities can significantly enhance mental well-being (Child Mind Institute, 2023).
Seeking Help
If you or someone you know is struggling during this period, it’s important to seek help. Here are some resources in various countries:
- United States: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – nami.org
- Canada: Kids Help Phone – kidshelpphone.ca
- Australia: Headspace – headspace.org.au
- United Kingdom: YoungMinds – youngminds.org.uk
Closing Thoughts
The festive season can be a challenging time for many teenagers, but with the right support and understanding, it can also be a period of growth and connection. Let’s all play our part in supporting the mental well-being of our youth. Please visit chatstat.com to learn more and follow us through our social media links below.
References:
American Psychological Association. (2023). Social media brings benefits and risks to teens. Here’s how psychology can help identify a path forward.
Child Mind Institute. (2023). Why Kids Need to Spend Time in Nature.
Cyberbullying Research Center. (2023). Research Summaries and Fact Sheets.
Journal of Affective Disorders. (2013). Seasonal Affective Disorder and the Holiday Season.
Primack, B. A., et al. (2017). Social Media Use and Perceived Social Isolation Among Young Adults in the U.S. American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
Sansone, R. A., & Sansone, L. A. (2011). The Christmas Effect on Psychopathology. Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience.