School Break Blues - A Letter of Compassion for Students

Breaks from school allow students to recharge and recuperate after a tough semester or year. For some, both short and long breaks can bring up some hard feelings. The expectation is that breaks from school are supposed to be fun and fulfilling, but that is not the case for everyone. Being home from college and other commitments can be really difficult for people with rough family lives. It is also hard to have the time to face emotions that might have been neglected while focusing on education. School breaks can sometimes be boring and leave people feeling like they lack a purpose. Watching peers spend their time with friends or vacationing can leave one feeling left out or even like they are "failing" their break since they're spending more time by themselves lounging around watching Netflix.

Recharging during breaks may not be possible for some, and relaxation will not look the same for everyone. The holidays may be the most wonderful time of the year for some, but it can also be one of the hardest times for others. This holiday break might not be relaxing for you, and that is okay! Self-care is always important over breaks as they can get depressing after a little while. The comedown following a busy session of school can feel like a crash, so be sure to give yourself a soft, compassion-filled place to land.

If you are off for break right now, I hope you are able to enjoy it. If not, don't be too hard on yourself for not enjoying it as much as we've been taught we should. Happy Holidays and love to all <3