The After-Christmas Blues When Students Return to School
Parent-to-Parent E/4:29
Are there any expectations from the beginning of 2023 that were intact at the close of the year? For any goals that didn’t endure the year, let us “forget what is behind, and strain toward what is ahead” as God’s Word declares in Philippians 3:13. Jesus Christ alone is the pioneer and perfecter of faith (Hebrews 12:1-2)! You might think, “Faith? Great! I believe that but what about the day-to-day parenting when we wished we could do ‘this’ or wished we hadn’t done ‘that’?” There is a way past them. It is going forward! Our Liberty Family can help you move forward and be an inspiration to your students at the same time.
After-Christmas Blues and How to Conquer “Bah, Humbug”
The holidays are over and the realization that there will be a change in the routine and daily dynamics is upon us. Gone is that excitement of knowing you were going to have your student home for weeks on top of all the Christmas excitement, events, and planning.
This change in routine may leave you feeling sad, I know I was. The after-Christmas blues have always been a thing for me and together with the missing student equaled some real “bah, humbug” time.
It helps to find ways to keep busy. Organize your Christmas decorations as you take them down, that will make next year easier as you put them up. Curl up with some good books, like that Bible study you’ve been meaning to do, or binge some shows you’ve been meaning to watch.
I kept a prayer journal where I would write exactly what I was praying for my daughter that day. For example: Today I am praying that you wake up on time and have a great day of classes. That you will make someone smile today or encourage someone. Another day I would write: I am praying that someone will make you smile today and that you know how loved you are. I would add a specific prayer request and a cute sticker or verse. One day in the future I will give this journal to her.
While you adjust to your new routine, remember your son or daughter will be adjusting to a new routine also. Being back at school after the comfort and security of home for weeks is hard. There will be all new classes, professors and schedules to get use to. There isn’t as much sunlight in the winter and studies show that can have a direct impact on mental health. Encourage your student to spend a few minutes getting some fresh air or at least sit by a window a few minutes if it is freezing outside. Remind them of all the things to do to help stay healthy as they are adjusting to a new normal. Wanda B., Graduate
