After the stress of finals, many students eagerly anticipate returning home for winter break. It’s a chance to recharge, reconnect with family and friends, and enjoy a familiar, comforting environment. However, while winter break can be a much-needed reprieve, it can also come with its own set of challenges. Whether it’s adjusting to life at home again or feeling like there’s nothing to do, break can sometimes feel more stressful than the semester itself. Here are some common issues students face during winter break—and ways to make the most of your time off.
Tight on Cash?
College students are often juggling tight budgets, and winter break can be a great time to earn some extra cash. Many retailers hire seasonal workers to help with the holiday rush, so check out local shops for part-time opportunities. If you’ve worked in the past, consider reaching out to former employers—there’s usually a high demand for extra help during the holidays, and they may have shifts available. Babysitting is another option, especially if you’re looking for flexible hours. Many people need sitters during holiday shopping or family gatherings. Earning some extra money can also help set you up financially for the upcoming semester.
Too Much Free Time?
After a semester filled with deadlines, classes, and extracurriculars, winter break can feel like a sudden, quiet void. With fewer obligations, you might experience boredom or frustration. For some, the unstructured time can exacerbate symptoms of stress, anxiety, or depression. While it's essential to take time to rest and recharge, having a plan for your break can help prevent feeling aimless or overwhelmed. Consider making a list of activities you enjoy or want to explore.
You might plan to visit friends you haven’t seen in a while or catch up with family members. If you enjoy reading, winter break is a great opportunity to dive into books you’ve been meaning to read but didn’t have time for during the semester. Volunteering can also be a fulfilling way to spend your time—whether it’s at a local shelter, food bank, or nonprofit (like ours!), giving back to the community can provide a sense of purpose. Whatever activities you choose, make sure to balance relaxation with fulfilling pursuits to keep your break feeling enjoyable and productive.
Family Tension?
Returning home after months away can bring up family dynamics that feel uncomfortable or stressful. You may find that old questions or conflicts resurface during the holidays, or that the transition to family life is harder than expected. The key to managing these situations is preparation. Think ahead about potential triggers or difficult conversations, and decide how you want to respond (or not respond). Having a few coping strategies in place can help you stay calm and grounded.
Some strategies to manage stress include reaching out to a trusted friend for support, using deep-breathing exercises, or taking a walk to clear your head. Additionally, reward yourself after dealing with tough moments—whether it’s by watching your favorite show, treating yourself to a favorite meal, or spending time doing something relaxing. Having something to look forward to can make challenging family interactions more manageable.
Concerned About Your Mental Health?
Winter break can sometimes bring up feelings of isolation, sadness, or anxiety, particularly for those already struggling with mental health challenges. For some, the lack of structure or the pressure of being “home for the holidays” can make symptoms worse. If you're already in treatment, now may be a good time to check in with your provider about how you’re feeling and get support during this time.
If you’re not currently in treatment but are experiencing mental health symptoms—such as trouble sleeping, overwhelming anxiety, or a lack of motivation—it’s important to take a step back and assess your mental health. Winter break offers a chance to reflect on how you're feeling and consider your next steps. Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are common, treatable, and manageable with the right support.
Remember, it's okay to reach out for help when you need it—taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 https://988lifeline.org/
Making the Most of Winter Break
Winter break is a time for rest, rejuvenation, and personal reflection, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. Whether you’re adjusting to life at home, managing family dynamics, or dealing with stress and mental health concerns, it’s important to acknowledge these feelings and take steps to address them. With some planning and self-care, winter break can still be a fulfilling and restorative time. Use the opportunity to rest, reflect, reconnect, and recharge, so you can return to the next semester feeling balanced and ready to tackle whatever comes next.