Holiday Season Stress: Teenage Mental Health Takes Center Stage
For many, the end of the year brings images of festive gatherings and stress-free relaxation. Yet, behind the twinkling lights and holiday cheer, a growing number of teenagers are facing a surge in stress and struggling with their mental health.
Dr. Kevin Gabel, a psychiatrist who runs the Day Hospital program for youth at North York General Hospital, sees this trend firsthand. While most might expect the start of the school year to be the peak period for teenage stress, Gabel reveals that November actually sees an influx of young people seeking mental health support.
“It’s likely related to the increased pressure at school,” explains Gabel. "As the holidays approach, the weather changes, days get shorter, and these factors can contribute to added stress.”
While the summer months offer a chance to ease back into the academic routine, by fall, the pressure ramps up.
“By October and November, classes are in full swing," Gabel says. "There’s added pressure with assignments, exams, and university applications, which can take a toll on teenagers.”
It’s not just academic worries that weigh on young minds. The youth mental health landscape is complex, encompassing a range of issues. Eating disorders, social difficulties, and challenges exacerbated by ADHD add to the mental burden many teens face.
A recent survey released by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) further underlines this concerning trend.
“We’ve seen a worrying decline in overall mental health among Ontario students in grades seven through twelve,” reports the CAMH study.
A staggering 37% reported experiencing elevated stress levels, while a concerning 51% reported moderate to serious psychological distress. "That last figure has doubled in just the past decade," the report stressed.
Further compounding the issue is the stigma surrounding mental health. Even when teens recognize they need help, many hesitate to reach out. A reluctance to seek professional support stems from feeling they should manage it themselves, fears of judgment, or simply feeling too overwhelmed to seek assistance.
Recognizing When a Teen Isn’t Okay
Knowing when a teenage struggles goes beyond observing typical teenage moods and behavior. Parents and caregivers should look for more persistent signs. "Spending extended periods feeling down or anxious, lasting for days, even weeks," says Dr. Gabel.
Warning signs often manifest in changes at home, at school, or in relationships. Withdrawal, becoming more reclusive, avoiding social interactions, or neglecting their usual activities are red flags.
“Persistence is key. Any significant changes in academic performance, a drop in grades, or sustained lack of interest in things they used to enjoy are cause for concern. It’s crucial to reach out and check in,” says Dr. Gabel, adding, “Many teens then open up and are relieved to have someone acknowledging their struggles.”
North York General’s Day Hospital program offers a unique support system for teens struggling with mental health challenges, particularly those having trouble attending school.
“It’s more than just therapy,” explains Gabel. “We provide academic support within a therapeutic environment. Typically, the program spans about eight weeks, helping teens build coping mechanisms and a plan to successfully return to school—either their current school or sometimes transitioning to a different environment, depending on individual needs.”
Navigating the Holiday Season
The holiday season presents additional challenges for teens navigating mental health issues. While many anticipate the celebrations, for vulnerable teens, holidays can amplify existing anxiety. Rickety familial relationships, strained by holiday pressures can exacerbate existing stress.
"Academic pressures intensify before
What are some reasons why the holiday season may be a particularly stressful time for teenagers?
## Interview: Teen Mental Health Under the Holiday Spotlight
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re digging into a topic many might find surprising: the impact of the holiday season on the mental health of teenagers. Joining me to shed light on this issue is Dr. Kevin Gabel, a psychiatrist who specializes in youth mental health. Dr. Gabel, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Gabel:** It’s my pleasure to be here. This is a crucial topic that deserves more attention.
**Host:** Absolutely. We often associate the holidays with joy and family time, but your work shows a different story for many teenagers.
**Dr. Gabel:** That’s right. While the holidays can be a happy time for some, for many teens, they become a period of increased stress and anxiety. It might seem counterintuitive, but November often sees a surge in young people seeking mental health support [[1](https://www.nami.org/Blogs/From-the-CEO/December-2021/The-Most-Difficult-Time-of-The-Year-Mental-Health-During-the-Holidays)].
**Host:** Really? Why do you think that is?
**Dr. Gabel:** It’s a combination of factors. Academic pressure intensifies in the fall, with exams, assignments, and university applications looming.
Add to that the shorter days and colder weather, which can affect mood and energy levels, and you have a recipe for heightened stress.
**Host:** Recent studies from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) paint a concerning picture of teenage mental health, even beyond the holidays. Could you elaborate on that?
**Dr. Gabel:** There’s been a significant decline in the overall mental health of Ontario students in grades seven through twelve [[1](https://www.nami.org/Blogs/From-the-CEO/December-2021/The-Most-Difficult-Time-of-The-Year-Mental-Health-During-the-Holidays)].
The CAMH study found that a significant proportion of teens experience elevated stress levels and psychological distress, with these numbers doubling in the last decade.
**Host:** That’s alarming. What can parents and educators do to support teenagers during this challenging time?
**Dr. Gabel:** Open communication is crucial. Creating a safe space for teens to talk about their feelings without judgment is essential. Encouraging healthy coping mechanisms, like exercise and spending time outdoors, can
also be beneficial. Recognizing the warning signs of mental health issues and seeking professional help when needed is critical.
**Host:** Wonderful advice. Dr. Gabel, thank you so much for sharing your expertise and helping raise awareness about this important issue.
**Dr. Gabel:** It was my pleasure. Remember, supporting our youth’s mental well-being is a collective effort.
Let’s work together to ensure they thrive, not just survive, during this time of year.
