Helping Students Navigate the Holiday Blues

(From Rutgers) For students and adults struggling with chronic mental illness, the holidays can amplify feelings of loneliness and depression, according to the National Association on Mental Illness. How adults respond to children's stress can lead to significant changes in mood and behavior. To help bring comfort to those suffering from mental distress during this time of year, mental health expert Schenike Massie-Lambert, PhD, recommends the following five tips:

• Model emotional expression and coping. 
• Maintain routines that work.
• Avoid overscheduling.
• Encourage activity.