Navigating the Holidays When Your Teen Is in Treatment
As the holiday season approaches, many of us envision joyful gatherings, festive meals, and time spent with loved ones. But for families whose teen is in treatment or struggling with mental health challenges, this season can feel very different. The contrast between what’s “supposed” to be a time of celebration and the reality of worry, distance, and uncertainty can be painful.
At Summit Achievement, we recognize that the holidays don’t look the same for everyone—and that’s okay. What matters most is connection, reflection, and moments of genuine care, wherever you and your family are on your journey.
For some families, the holidays may bring together a blended family system navigating new dynamics after divorce or separation. For others, one parent may be carrying the emotional weight alone as a single caregiver. Some families may be coping with the loss of a loved one, or adjusting to traditions that feel different this year. These realities can bring both tenderness and tension to the season—and we want you to know that however your holidays unfold, your family’s version of “togetherness” still matters deeply.
Healing involves not only the adolescent in treatment but the entire family system. Each member has their own experience of love, worry, and hope—and the holidays can magnify those feelings. That’s why we encourage families to approach this time with gentleness and flexibility. Traditions may shift, roles may change, and that’s part of what growth can look like. Sometimes, creating space for new ways of connecting—through letters, shared gratitude, or small moments of reflection—can lead to deeper understanding and healing for everyone involved.
We strive to make the holidays as special and comforting as possible for our students. For Thanksgiving, we take the day off from regular programming to enjoy time together as a community. The day includes watching movies, playing games, and cooking a communal Thanksgiving meal—students and staff side by side, creating and sharing a sense of belonging and gratitude.
Because many of our families celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah, we honor both traditions through decorations on campus, including a Christmas tree and a Menorah. On Christmas Day and the first day of Hanukkah this year, students will have the chance to sleep in, open gifts from their parents, enjoy holiday movies, and share a special community meal.
At the same time, we understand that families come from a wide range of backgrounds and faiths, and not every household celebrates the same holidays—or celebrates them in the same way. Whatever your family observes, we will strive to honor those traditions with respect and openness. Our goal is to help every student feel seen, valued, and included during this season of reflection and connection.
We also know that connection with family is particularly meaningful during this time. Family visits can be arranged outside of our regular guidelines, and we encourage parents to speak with their child’s therapist to discuss options that best support everyone’s needs.
Caring for Yourself This Season
Parents often carry a quiet weight during this time—holding space for worry, hope, and grief all at once. It’s important to remember that caring for yourself is not selfish; it’s essential. A few gentle reminders:
- Allow yourself to feel what you feel. The holidays can be bittersweet. Give yourself permission to grieve what’s different while also noticing small moments of beauty or rest.
- Lean on your support network. Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist who understands. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
- Simplify when you can. Let go of the pressure to make things perfect. Focus instead on connection, meaning, and moments of calm.
- Create a small ritual for yourself. A walk in the crisp winter air, lighting a candle, or writing in a journal can help you stay grounded.
- Trust the process. Healing takes time, and your teen is in a supportive environment focused on growth. You are both doing important work, even if it looks different this year.
While the holidays can bring up complex emotions, they can also be a time of quiet hope and renewal. At Summit Achievement, we are reminded every year that community, care, and small moments of joy can bring light—even in challenging seasons.
From all of us at Summit Achievement, we wish you and your family peace, warmth, and connection this holiday season.
If your teenager is struggling with their mental health or difficulty within the family system, and you are considering treatment options, perhaps Summit Achievement could be right for your family. Reach out to Admissions today.