Let's Talk About It: Spring Break

We have all been waiting for it and all signs point to it actually being around the corner:

SPRING (BREAK)  IS COMING!

This can mean many different things to many different people, however, it is a safe bet that the majority of teens are looking forward to some well-deserved down time away from school work, from an alarm clock, from the regimented schedule they have been on since fall!  

Spring break can also mean some teens are more vulnerable to risky behaviors due to the attitude and beliefs they hold toward substance use and the fact that they “deserve” a little rest and relaxation.  While I can’t argue the last statement (everyone deserves a little rest and relaxation), I do believe as parents we have a responsibility to look at our own attitudes and beliefs as they align to the expectations we set for our children.  Whether you are able to take a vacation away from Minnesota, or you are lucky enough to enjoy the snow melt here at home, “spring break” can be a time to make sure that there are clear rules within your family to help protect teens from the many challenges that come with underage drinking or other underage substance use.  

Not sure where you stand on the subject? FCD Prevention Works, which is part of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, offers some great insight on the importance of adult attitudes and the ways in which we convey messages to our children.  Preventing risky behaviors can help our children avoid the challenges that come with early substance use.  When children see or feel our ambivalence, they may begin to act out or challenge us in ways they haven’t done so before. There is a wealth of great information here and I encourage you to read through it.  

Spring break also tends to be a time where older teens may travel to Mexico or other “spring break” locations either with or without parental supervision.  The Center for Disease Control (CDC)  has published some alarming facts regarding underage drinking and binge drinking and I encourage you to read through them with your child prior to any “spring break” vacation.  Doing so allows both you and your child to begin the conversation with the hopes of continuing the open dialogue.

For some, spring break can also be a time where feelings of loneliness can intensify.  Those who struggle with depression may find it difficult to join in any activities or connect with others due to their struggle with mental health. Add to this the pressure some may feel to have a “perfect” spring break as portrayed in the media and on social media and well, it can make one feel alone.  Creating a space to have a “staycation” by doing a movie night, getting outside, going to a community event or shopping - no matter what it is, getting involved and getting out can help create memories and help with loneliness. 

My hope is that when the opportunity to talk to your child about substance use or mental health  arises, you are able to respond by saying, “Let’s Talk About It”! 

May you have a safe and relaxing “spring” break!

Colleen O’Neil, LADC
Chemical Health Prevention Specialist
651-829-4708
colleen.o’neil@moundsviewschools.org

Julia Geigle, MSW, LICSW
Mental Health Specialist
612-470-8937
julia.geigle@moundsviewschools.org

Chad Jayasekera, MA, LICSW
Mental Health Specialist
651-212-5291
chad.jayasekera@moundsviewschools.org