OFM_AskTheExperts_12_21_Central_DEPT 11 / 23 / 21 12 : 16 PM Page 1 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION ask mental health tips the expert During the Holidays angry or tearful for seemingly minor reasons can be a sign of feeling stressed or over - whelmed . Nervous behaviors such as pacing , nail biting and fidgeting may be signs of anxiety and overstimulation . Withdrawal from friends and family or refusing to attend school or social gatherings with friends , can be symptoms of depression . How can I minimize holiday stress for Christin my child ? Erika Mora , M.A . , Edwards - Stick to the regular routine as much as pos - RMHC - I Salinas , LCSW sible , including typical bedtime and wake up times . Try not to overschedule and be sure to include time for rest / relaxation . Balance family In a world that is still recovering from Managing Mental Health Throughout time with independent activities for children , a pandemic , the 2021 holiday season the Holidays for Parents and Caregivers so that they can rejuvenate after socialization . may represent a struggle for some The holiday season is upon us and while this families . What are some of the time is meant to be full of joy and celebrations , Why does my child seem depressed challenges children and adolescents it can cause stress and bring about feelings of around the holidays ? may face ? frustration , sadness , or anxiety for some . The holidays are an exciting time and often Like all of us , children and adolescents have For children and adolescents who are already come with expectations of joyous occasions been adjusting to new and unpredictable struggling with emotions and behavioral and positive memories . Although for some circumstances over the past two years : the issues , the holidays can be a time of even children and adolescents , the holiday season loss of loved ones , social distancing from greater stress . Prioritizing commitments to reminds them of difficult times or memories of family members and friends , and new travel holiday celebrations and not trying to “ make past holiday seasons that were not so bright . and safety guidelines . This can have a direct up for lost time ” is one example of a proactive Particularly those who have experienced some impact on their mental health . Many of my step in managing one’s own mental health and level of trauma , such as exposure to domestic young clients have been expressing grief , loss , setting an example for our children throughout violence or substance abuse , separation or worry , loneliness , and stress due to family the holiday season . Keeping in mind that divorce of parents , or even financial stress for financial and health concerns around COVID - everyone does not process the experiences of the family . Taking advantage of the holiday 19 . As we enter the holiday season , these the holidays the same way , can help us season to spend more quality time with stresses can become exaggerated as families support one another’s emotional response children can assure them that there are more find new ways to celebrate together . throughout the days ahead . optimistic times ahead and / or remind them that you are listening and paying attention to How can we help them to navigate A few reminders for parents and care - how they feel . Teenagers typically respond these challenges ? givers to manage mental health … positively to this approach , even when it may The good news is that families are medicine . Don’t Overbook – Prioritize holiday plans and not seem like it at the time ! As a child therapist , I understand the impact only commit to the most important of family emotional responsiveness on celebrations . How do I learn more ? children and adolescents . As adults , it is vital Stick to the Regular Schedule – Children More information is available at their that we listen to their concerns , provide typically thrive when following established upcoming Parent and Caregiver Support series . comfort and advice , and deliver unconditional routines . All parents and caregivers are love . Feeling sad , confused , or angry are all Stay Active – Don’t forget to incorporate fresh welcome ! Register in advance at FLRSVP @ natural responses , and it is important for air and exercise throughout the hustle and devereux.org , at no cost to participant and children to understand that they are not alone bustle of the holidays , limit screen time for the without commitment to participating in on that emotional rollercoaster . Talking to our entire family . ongoing services . Limited sessions available children about the future , and how the family Rest and Relaxation – Be sure to utilize the upon request for private groups . ( To make a will celebrate the upcoming holidays in holiday break from other obligations for some referral for counseling or ongoing therapeutic particular , can provide predictability , comfort time to rejuvenate , this is healthy for your services , contact FLCounseling @ devereux.org and a sense of safety . mind and body . or 407 - 745 - 0499 . ) Be Aware of Your Own Stress – Setting a positive example for our young ones can have a lifelong impact ! FLORIDA Insight offered through common questions Live Oak Behavorial Health Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health for the mental health experts … 341 N Maitland Ave . , Ste 120 , Maitland Florida ( 407 ) 756 - 2084 DevereuxFL.org How can I tell if my child is experiencing liveoakbehavioralhealth.com Info : DevereuxFlorida @ devereux.org holiday stress ? 9 : 00 AM - 6 : 00 PM , Monday – Friday 8 : 00 AM - 12 : 00 PM , Saturday Referral Line : ( 407 ) 745 - 0499 Be on the lookout for even minor changes in info @ liveoakbehavioralhealth.com FLCounseling @ Devereux.org your child’s typical behavior . Becoming easily ORLANDOFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM december 2021 ORLANDO FAMILY 15