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Supporting Kids and Teens Through Holiday Stress

The holiday season can light up with joy, but for many kids and teens the very same point in time can trigger holiday stress, unexpected pressure, and intensified holiday anxiety. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we understand that keeping the holidays safe, connected and caring is just as important as the celebrations themselves. Here’s how families can support emotional well-being amidst the bustle and why attention to youth mental health matters now more than ever.

Why Holiday Stress Matters For Kids’ Mental Health

Young people already face a lot of emotional load, and the holidays can make that even heavier. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 11% of children ages 3 to 17 had current diagnosed anxiety in 2022 to 2023 (cdc.gov). Additionally, among youth ages 12 to 17, 20% experienced symptoms of anxiety in the past two weeks (aecf.org).

When routines shift, expectations rise, and the pace tends to speed up, the emotional and mental health of kids and teens can feel especially vulnerable. Holiday specific pressures such as changes in schedule, family gatherings, and gift expectations can amplify what we typically reference as holiday stress and holiday anxiety.

Common Triggers of Holiday Anxiety in Youth

Here are a few ways the season can intensify stress for youth:

  • Slip in routine: School break means less structure, later bedtimes, and more screen time. The typical result? More anxiety, and more restlessness. It is most helpful to stick to routines during this time so holiday stress doesn’t escalate.
  • Over scheduling: Multiple parties, travel, and events may create too much “holiday fun,” which can easily shift into overwhelm.
  • High expectations: Kids may feel pressure to perform, to “be happy,” or to see everything as perfect, which can be unrealistic.
  • Home dynamics: For some youth, the home may not feel like a restful place. Family conflict, caretaking responsibilities, or isolation can contribute to holiday anxiety.
  • Financial or social stressors: According to the American Psychological Association, nearly 89% of people say concerns like finances or family tensions cause stress at this time of year (apa.org).

Because these pressures overlap with what impacts kids’ mental health as a whole, this season is a better time than ever for intentional support.

How Families Can Reduce Holiday Stress Together

Here are several practical ways you can support your child or teen, and your whole family, so that the holidays can feel more grounding and less anxiety filled.

1. Prioritize rest, routine and rhythm
Keep bedtimes, meals, and physical activity as consistent as possible. Even if social events push a schedule later, try returning quickly to something familiar. This helps buffer against holiday anxiety.

2. Limit commitments and over extension
Choose a manageable number of gatherings, outings, or events. Commit to one or two extra activities per week rather than saying yes to everything. Take the time to ask yourself what matters most this season. Maybe fewer commitments and more quality time.

3. Involve kids and teens in planning
Let them pick one tradition, one activity, or one way to give. Their involvement builds ownership and reduces feelings of being carried along by the holiday whirlwind.

4. Build in quiet together moments
Amidst the holiday chaos, make time for simple, yet intentional connections like reading a book together, taking a walk, or asking how they’re really doing. These small moments help check in on feelings and strengthen connection.

5. Set realistic expectations and model self compassion
Remind your child (and yourself) that it’s okay not to feel perfect. If you feel holiday stress or holiday anxiety yourself, naming it out loud helps to model healthy emotional awareness.

6. Lean on external supports and programs
At WYS we offer a variety of programs that support youth emotional well-being, peer connection, and safe spaces for expression. Families can explore our group services, mentoring, and skilled staff who prioritize inclusive, compassionate support.

Outside of WYS, you might find these helpful:

  • The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers resources for youth and families navigating the holidays: nami.org 
  • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers guidance on mental health during the holiday season: samhsa.gov

Why Early Support Matters

When we prioritize kids’ mental health now, especially during periods of extra pressure such as a busy holiday season, we set a foundation that promotes resilience long term. Routine, connection, emotional literacy, and openness all contribute to reducing the risk of more serious distress down the road.Providing calm, trustworthy space during the holidays can make a significant difference.

If the holidays are feeling extra heavy this year, either for you or your child, you are absolutely not alone. Many families experience holiday stress in ways they didn’t anticipate. The good news: a few intentional shifts in planning, connection, and expectation can soften the load.

At Western Youth Services, we believe in your family’s potential to feel safe, connected, and cared for this season and always. You’re doing important work simply by being present.

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Email Summary: 

The holidays can bring joy and excitement, but for many kids and teens, they can also bring stress and anxiety. Between busy schedules, changes in routine, and added expectations, it’s easy for the season to feel overwhelming.

Our new blog, “Supporting Kids and Teens Through Holiday Stress,” offers guidance to help families slow down, stay connected, and focus on what truly matters which is feeling safe, supported, and cared for.

In this blog, you’ll find:

  • Practical tips to manage holiday stress as a family
  • Ways to recognize signs of holiday anxiety in kids and teens
  • Helpful resources from Western Youth Services and other trusted sources

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