While winter break is often viewed as a time for rest and reconnection, December can be one of the most emotionally demanding months for teens and their families. Academic pressure, disrupted routines, social comparison, and seasonal changes frequently converge, causing stress levels to peak during the holiday period. Recognising this growing challenge, Talkspace has released a seasonal guide to help families understand why emotional stress tends to rise in December, particularly among adolescents. Informed by licensed mental health professionals, the resource outlines the unique stressors tied to the holiday season and academic calendar, while offering therapist-backed strategies to reduce conflict, support emotional well-being, and restore balance during this demanding time of year.
In this interview with MedTech Spectrum, Bisma Anwar, Counsellor and Clinical Marketing & Webinar Program Manager at Talkspace, shares expert insights on the subtle signs of teen burnout, the impact of academic and social pressures, and how families can realistically support high school and college students during the break. She also discusses when to seek professional help and how digital therapy platforms can provide accessible, flexible mental health support during high-stress periods.
Why does emotional stress tend to peak during winter break for teens and families, even when the holidays are traditionally seen as a time of rest and connection?
During the winter break, teens might feel pressure due to family dynamics, social anxiety, and a lack of structure to their daily routines. There is also the impact of less sunlight, more gloomy/cold weather, and a large quantity of family obligations that can be emotionally dysregulating for them.
How do academic pressures, such as finals and college applications, compound holiday-related stress for adolescents?
At times, academic pressures related to finals, grades, and college application deadlines keep teens anxious and stressed. Instead of being able to relax and socialise, they are distracted by these concerns.
What are some of the less obvious signs of burnout in teens that parents often overlook during the break?
Some of the less obvious signs of burnout in teens can include emotional numbness, increased irritability or withdrawing from others. Parents may also notice changes in sleep patterns, frequent headaches or stomachaches, or a loss of interest in activities that the teen usually enjoys.
What role does social media comparison play in amplifying holiday stress, and how can families realistically counter this pressure?
Social media comparison can worsen holiday stress by presenting images of “perfect” families, gifts, and experiences. This makes teens feel left out, especially if they are emotionally vulnerable. Parents can support their teen by helping them normalise what’s real versus staged, encouraging breaks from social media, and focusing on spending time with each other.
When should parents consider seeking professional support, and how can digital therapy platforms help families manage high-pressure periods like winter break?
If a teen’s stress interferes with daily functioning, or parents observe symptoms such as sadness, anxiety, withdrawal, or mood changes, then they should consider getting them into therapy. Digital therapy platforms are easily accessible and offer flexibility. They also help normalise getting preventative care before stress escalates into a more serious mental health issue.
How can families support their high school and especially college students during the break when they are at home, isolated from most of their peers?
Families can support high school and college students by maintaining a consistent connection while also respecting their autonomy. Students can feel more grounded when parents engage with them positively. A few ways to do that are having shared meals, check-ins, and validating feelings of loneliness or disconnection.
