As we approach the holiday season and youth head into winter break, it’s important to learn ways to navigate substance use prevention during this time. While the holidays are often associated with joy, celebration, and time with loved ones, they can also bring increased risks for youth as schedules shift, social pressures rise, exposure to substances increases, and adult supervision decreases. Some youth also find this time of year emotionally challenging. Feelings of sadness, loneliness, or grief can become overwhelming, and these stressors may increase the risk of substance misuse as a means of coping. Understanding the relationship between the holidays and substance use among youth helps us better prepare to support them.
Studies have found that substance use among youth is likely to increase during school breaks, including winter break. Factors such as family or financial stress, lack of supervision and structure, loneliness, and increased accessibility to substances all play a role. The study Longitudinal Associations Between Adolescent Out-of-School Time and Adult Substance Use found that adolescents who spent more “high-school hours” unsupervised with peers were more likely to report binge drinking and regular marijuana use by age 26. In contrast, participation in supervised activities—such as sports, arts, employment, or clubs—lowered the odds of substance use. When youth take a pause from routine, they often default to unsupervised time with peers, which is associated with increased risk.
Prevention starts with conversation; there is not a one-size-fits-all approach. However, here are a few strategies you can use this holiday season when talking with your youth:
Keep conversations short, informal, and frequent.
Multiple small conversations can be more effective than one long, serious talk.
Conversation starter:
“I know there’s a lot going on this time of year. Is there anything you’re looking forward to or feeling unsure about?”
Avoid lectures and scare tactics.
Focus on your youth’s health and well-being, not punishment. Invite them to share their concerns or questions about substances.
Conversation starter:
“Is there anything about drugs or alcohol you’ve heard that you’re not sure is true?”
Be aware of warning signs.
These can include changes in eating or sleeping habits, physical appearance, school performance, rule-breaking, or withdrawal from friends and family.
Conversation starter:
“If you ever felt overwhelmed or needed support, what’s the best way for me to show up for you?”
Create an exit plan.
Let your youth know that if they find themselves in a social setting where they feel uncomfortable, they can call you at any time. Assure them that if they call, you’ll pick them up—no questions or lectures in the moment.
Find structured activities.
allcove San Juan Capistrano and the Noble Path Foundation offer activities for teens in fun, safe environments. You can also check your local city’s recreation department to see what family or youth activities are available during the holiday break.
The holidays also provide a meaningful opportunity to talk about safety. December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, making it an ideal time to discuss the dangers and consequences of driving under the influence or riding with someone who has been using substances. In 2024, about one in four teen car crashes involved an underage drinking driver. The most effective way to stop impaired driving is to prevent it from happening in the first place.
As we move through the holiday season, checking in on loved ones who may be struggling is essential. With the right conversations, awareness, and support, we can help youth handle the pressures and emotions that often surface during this time. Prevention begins at home, and even small check-ins can have a big impact. This season let’s continue fostering safety and open communication.
By: Isabel Villegas WPC Health Educator