The holidays are a time when families come together to celebrate—but for families with struggling teenagers, the holidays can be anything but festive. This time of year can bring up challenging family dynamics that can have a negative impact on young people who are already struggling with behavioral issues.
During times of chaotic holidays, families of struggling teenagers can still be assured that there is help available to them. Let’s take a look at how family stress affects troubled youth and why it’s so important to seek professional help if and when needed.
What is Holiday Placement for Troubled Teenagers?
Holiday placement for troubled teenagers is a difficult time for families who are struggling to keep their child safe and provide them with the support they need. In a holiday placement, the teen will stay in a therapeutic residential program that is designed to help them manage issues such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and more. The program offers individualized counseling, educational support, recreational activities and experiential therapy, not to mention a safe place for your teen. During their time in the program, teens can work on developing skills such as self-regulation, communication and anger management.
When Is the Right Time?
Holidays with struggling teenagers can get overwhelming. Oftentimes, the impulse is to try and tough it out until the season passes. However, there is no shame in recognizing the importance of getting help during the holidays—in fact, this is sometimes an optimal time for teens to receive treatment or secure holiday placement so that they can find balance in their lives.
Chaotic holidays and significant life events can often exacerbate mental health issues in struggling teens as pressure and stress levels rise. Seeking out the assistance of a professional therapist or treatment center can provide much-needed support for teenagers and their families. For example, specialized short-term residential placements may be available during the holiday season to give teens the chance to step away from difficult home situations and focus on making positive changes in their lives. The timing of the intervention can be adjusted to fit the needs of the family and accommodate their holiday schedule.
The Decision to Ask for Help
While the decision to seek professional help for a troubled teen can be difficult and overwhelming, it is often the most effective approach. In addition, parents should remember that taking this step demonstrates strength, not weakness. Asking for assistance presents an opportunity at establishing stability and harmony between parent and child. Not only will this make the transition into a healthier relationship easier but also increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Holiday placement and placement in schools for troubled teenagers during the holidays involve a huge commitment of time and resources, so it’s understandable if parents are hesitant to take the first step. That said, it’s important to keep in mind that early recognition of problem areas is key; the sooner help can be sought, the better the chances of success.
There is no need to be ashamed when seeking assistance; there are organizations dedicated to supporting families in this situation proving there is help available when they need it most.
The Holiday Season
The holidays can be a trying time for many, Sesame reported that an overwhelming majority of Americans experience heightened levels of depression and anxiety during this period. Moreover, 67% of their research even went as far as to consider seeking mental health treatment around the holidays - highlighting just how much of an issue it is for people.
This cannot be more accurate when a family has a struggling teenager who needs treatment. Many parents find themselves in the difficult position of having to weigh the desire to let their child enjoy the holiday season with family and friends against the necessity of providing them with specialized care. Holiday placement in schools for troubled teenagers is a difficult decision that parents must grapple with in order to provide the best care for their teens. Here's a quick guide on how to manage the holidays with struggling teenagers.
Dealing with Troubled Teens Through a Holiday Placement
It's important to remember that when it comes to dealing with troubled teens, getting help is the best approach. Taking proactive steps towards seeking support for your teen is acknowledging that the situation requires an intervention. Professional help and holiday placement can be an effective way of providing teens with the stability, structure and opportunity to work through issues in a safe and nurturing environment.
Although the process of seeking help can seem daunting, there are organizations with experienced professionals and specialized programs designed to work with families and teens.
Again, remember that asking for help is a sign of strength rather than weakness, and getting professional assistance could make all the difference during this holiday season!
For more information about placement schools available, please CONTACT Sundance Canyon Academy today.