Managing Spring Break Stress: Tips for Parents of School-Aged Children and College Students
Spring breaks are officially underway, and students are excited for a well-deserved break from their regular routines. Whether it's a family trip, downtime at home, or simply taking a moment to relax, spring break is often seen as a time to unwind and recharge. However, for many kids and college students, the shift in routine can lead to stress and anxiety, leaving them feeling overwhelmed rather than refreshed.
We understand that transitions, even those that seem exciting or positive, can sometimes negatively impact mental health. The break in structure, academic pressures, and changes in social dynamics can bring added stress, especially when students aren’t sure how to cope with these shifts.
Tips to help manage stress and stay balanced during spring break:
Acknowledge the Stress
A change in routine, even a positive one, can feel unsettling—especially when you’re used to the structure of school, extracurriculars, and social obligations. It’s okay to feel a little anxious when routines shift. Parents can encourage kids to recognize and express their feelings, while college students can benefit from journaling or talking to a trusted friend or counselor to process their emotions. Acknowledging stress is the first step toward reducing it.
Maintain Some Routines
It may be tempting to completely abandon the usual schedule during school breaks, but keeping some elements of routine can help kids and college students feel more grounded. This could be as simple as waking up at a similar time each day, eating balanced meals, or setting aside time for study or reading. Keeping a loose routine can provide a sense of control and reduce stress.
Set Realistic Expectations for the Break
Spring break is often portrayed as a time for exciting adventures, travel, or the perfect getaway, but these high expectations can create unnecessary pressure. Parents can help kids manage these expectations by focusing on what will truly help them relax and recharge. College students can benefit from realistic planning—whether they want to rest, catch up on assignments, or reconnect with friends and family, setting realistic goals for the break will help manage stress.
Take Care of the Body and Mind
Mental and physical health are deeply intertwined, so it’s important to continue practicing self-care during the break. Encourage kids, teens, and college students to stay active with exercise, eat nutritious meals, and prioritize rest. Even a short walk every day can promote relaxation. Additionally, relaxation techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and anxiety. Teaching these practices to younger students or encouraging older students to practice on their own can offer them valuable tools to reduce tension.
Stay Social—but Set Boundaries
Spring break often brings an increase in social activities, whether with friends or family. While maintaining social connections is important for well-being, it's equally essential to set boundaries to prevent burnout. It’s perfectly okay to decline social invitations if it feels overwhelming. Encourage kids and college students to carve out time for themselves—whether that means enjoying a solo activity or simply relaxing in quiet to recharge.
Manage Time Wisely
For students with academic responsibilities, spring break can still bring a sense of pressure about upcoming assignments or projects. Help them manage their time wisely by breaking down larger tasks into smaller steps. Setting aside time during the break for schoolwork can reduce stress about returning to classes after the break. By avoiding procrastination and staying on track, students can return to school feeling more in control.
Practice Gratitude
Breaks from school offer a chance to reflect on what we're grateful for, and focusing on gratitude can significantly reduce stress. Parents can encourage students to take a few moments each day to reflect on things they’re thankful for—whether it’s the chance to relax, their good health, or supportive friends and family. For college students, this practice can help shift their perspective and promote positivity during the break.
Know When to Ask for Help
If stress or anxiety becomes overwhelming, it’s important to seek support. Parents can guide kids and teens to talk to a counselor, while college students should feel encouraged to access campus mental health services or professional support. Mental health is just as important during school breaks as it is during the academic year, and there’s no shame in reaching out for help when needed.
While spring break is meant to be a time of rest and rejuvenation, it’s normal for kids, teens, and college students to experience stress as they adjust to a change in routine. Parents and students alike should understand that it’s okay not to feel completely relaxed all the time. By acknowledging stress, maintaining some structure, and prioritizing self-care, it’s possible to navigate the break in a healthy and balanced way.
At Indiana Counseling and Resilience Center, we’re committed to supporting students and parents during every season of life. If you or your child feel overwhelmed during school breaks, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help families prioritize mental health and thrive throughout the year.
Ready to Begin Therapy in Indianapolis, IN?
If you find that you or your child need additional support, we’re ready to help! At Indiana Counseling and Resilience Center, we can work with you to develop effective strategies for managing emotions and difficult social situations. Your child deserves a peaceful and fulfilling future, and therapy can be a powerful tool to help them achieve it. Follow these three simple steps to get started:
Contact us to schedule an appointment
Meet one of our our skilled therapists with your child.
Start helping your kid feel more confident and successful!
Other Services Offered at Indiana Counseling and Resilience Center
At Indiana Counseling and Resilience Center, our team wants the best for our clients and we want to support you in any way we can. Our team of skilled and caring therapists specialize in anxiety, trauma & PTSD counseling, couples counseling, and EMDR therapy. We offer our services both in-person and online in the state of Indiana. For more about us check out our FAQs!
