Changing Seasons; A stressful time for teens and young adults returning to school

Our mood and behavior is effected by the changing seasons. What do you think about that? Do you think that is possible? As a therapist who specializes in teen and young adult issues I can't help but see the connection. I see it mostly in the fall, winter, and spring. Now, we all have our theories as to why seasonal changes affect our mood so much. There is such a thing called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also referred to as winter depression, winter blues, or the hibernation reaction. It is a type of depression that is triggered by the shorter days of fall and winter. The decreasing light and colder temperatures are major factors. For most of us the shining sun has a way of making us want to be outside, exercise more, and eat better which helps us to feel better about ourselves.

Working with teens and young adults, I see how summer changing to fall can bring about a lot of change that is oftentimes very stressful. No, I'm not talking about the stress we experience when it is colder or the days are shorter, but the stress young people feel (not to mention parents) when they return to school in the fall. In my opinion this is why young people experience more mood and behavioral issues. The first semester back in school can be an exciting time for some, but can be challenging for most. It is the transition from down-time and vacations in the summer to a highly structured and somewhat rigorous schedule in a pretty short span of time. Depending on how well the young person copes and how strong their support system is, measures how well they will adjust to this change. For example, if the young person struggles to make friends, or is challenged by attentional issues in the classroom and their performance suffers as a result, they will find it more difficult to settle into this transition in a healthy way. Many times, I see clients who feel anxious because they worry about what others think of them. Teens and young adults want to be recognized and acknowledged by their peers and believe it or not, the adults in their lives. If this is not happening, mood and behavior is effected and unhealthy coping measures will come into play. This may include substance abuse, self-harming behaviors, not following rules at home or school, or spending too much time playing World of Warcraft.

Especially during big transition times (such as the beginning of school), I encourage parents to check in with their kids on a more than regular basis. Sit-down dinners are encouraged most nights out of the week if possible. If that is not possible, then one a week is better than none. This is a valuable time to check in and hear how your kids are doing, as well as a time to provide support to them. Try to make this a time when confrontations do not take place or arguments do not occur so your teen or young adult child (if they are living at home) will feel like they can open up without judgment. You will learn a lot about their world if you allow them to talk without judging or challenging them in that moment.

Structure is important for all teens, but especially during transitions or times of change. Encouraging a consistent bedtime on school nights (remember that teens need 10 hours of sleep to function at their highest level), and designating a specific, consistent time they are home each night are both important ways to help the teen have less stress. It is also strongly encouraged that young people have at least an hour before bedtime when they are not on the computer, as it can be very stimulating and may effect their ability to fall asleep.

Like most young people living with their parents, they will challenge the structure you set and your expectations. This is part of their developmental process, so just expect it. It is really hard to compare any other time in our lives when we go through as much change as we do when we are teens and young adults. Physically, emotionally, socially......it is quite something.