The holidays are designed to be a time of celebration and joy. They are meant to bring us closer together through quality time, activities, food, drinks, gifts, movie watching, singing, partying and relaxing. They are a time of abundance and hope.
But the holidays aren’t easy for everyone.
For many people, this is a stressful time of year, and it’s easy to focus on our own stress. Who is coming over and when, and why won’t they confirm with me? What food do I make to accommodate all of their dietary restrictions? How do I keep everyone safe from COVID-19 with cases and restrictions on the rise?
Meanwhile, many young adults are flocking home for the holidays, and many more still are stuck in isolation due to COVID-19 restrictions or strained family relationships.
Young people are dealing with their own types of stress, including isolation, loneliness, confusion and uncertainty. Some don’t have family to see over the holidays, while others aren’t looking forward to spending time with certain relatives. The majority of young adults are unclear about what the future holds for them, amplifying their stress.
As a grown adult, you may notice what the young people in your life are going through at this uniquely challenging time, but you may not know how to help. You may even be inclined to give them specific advice for actions they can take to navigate these challenges. But often, especially when the young people in question are your own kids, they can be reluctant to take your advice and may even feel judged or attacked.
And just like that, while the intent of the holidays is to bring us closer together, it can create a deep divide instead. In fact, this time of year can be the catalyst for a breakdown.
I’d like to pause here for a moment to talk about an initiative that we recently launched to help young adults manage their mental health, aspirations, relationships, personal and professional challenges and more.
It’s called The Journal That Talks Back™.
The Journal That Talks Back™ is an affordable, accessible and unlimited coaching service that connects young professionals with a certified coach. Individuals journal privately with their coach in our secure, online platform and their coach gives feedback, support and guidance. It’s literally a journal that talks back.
Over holidays, I urge you to pay attention to what the young people in your life are saying and doing. Do they actively join conversations and participate in activities? Do they stick to their corner of the couch with their eyes glued to their screen? Did they fail to visit over the holidays and sound tense on the phone?
If there is a young adult in your life who could benefit from accessible coaching, please invite them to take a look at The Journal That Talks Back™. They can learn more about us however and whenever they feel comfortable. Show them our site where they can book a warm and helpful call with a member of our intake team.
Our mission is to provide a safe and accessible space for young adults to journal, to be heard, to receive guidance and to flourish.
No matter what you’re up to this holiday season, we’re wishing you the best that it has to bring!
