Contributed By: Summit Achievement Team

The holiday season is often a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. But for families with children in residential treatment, it can be a period marked by emotional complexity, heartache, and deep reflection, and families face the season with a unique set of challenges. There are many reasons why the holidays can be so difficult for families with a child in residential care.  Let’s explore some of these challenges,  some strategies to help stay connected, and how Summit Achievement steps into holiday tradition to support students and families.

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1. The Emotional Weight of Separation

For many, the holiday season is synonymous with family gatherings. When a child is in residential treatment, their absence is felt deeply, and the family dynamic feels incomplete. Parents may struggle with guilt, sadness, and even anger as they reflect on what they think “should” be happening. Siblings may miss the shared traditions and playful moments, while grandparents and extended family might worry about how best to offer support.

2. The Challenge of Navigating Conversations with Others

During the holidays, well-meaning friends and relatives often ask questions or make comments that can feel intrusive or insensitive. Questions like, “How’s your son doing?” or “Will your daughter be home for the holidays?” can bring up complex emotions and pressure families to explain their situation. Preparing responses ahead of time and deciding to set boundaries around these topics can help alleviate some of the emotional toll these interactions can bring.

3. Loss of Holiday Traditions

Many families have cherished holiday traditions that may be difficult or impossible to carry on when a child is in treatment. These rituals are often painful reminders of the current circumstances. Some families may adapt old traditions or create new ones that allow them to honor their connection to their child, even from a distance.

4. Facing Mixed Emotions

The holidays can bring an overwhelming mix of emotions including grief, guilt, hope, relief, sadness, and even moments of joy. These complex feelings can be hard to reconcile, especially when the world around you is celebrating. Parents might feel both a sense of relief that their child is getting the support they need and the sorrow of not having them at home. Recognizing that it’s okay to feel both can help families navigate this emotionally charged time of year.

Strategies for Finding Strength During the Holidays

We acknowledge that it is hard to make the holidays feel “normal,” and yet there are ways to help families cope with the challenges of this time of year that might provide some comfort and…Read Full Article at SummitAchievement.com