By Maya Pottiger, Word In Black
It’s the happiest time of the year — right?
Not for everyone. Actually, 3 in 5 Americans — more than half — report that the holiday season negatively impacts their mental health, according to a 2021 Sesame report. Though a break from school is supposed to be celebrated by young people, it can be a really stressful time.
Depending on your home situation, being away from your school environment for extended periods of time can do more damage than good. Many students, especially low-income students and students of color, rely on mental health resources provided in school. On top of that, home environments aren’t necessarily affirming places, especially for Black LGBTQ+ students. Or maybe home just means caring for siblings full-time instead of relaxing with friends.
