Surviving Winter Break: Tips for College Students Going Home

Olivia Frichtl, LPC
4 days ago
2 min read

A young adult wearing a hooded coat and thick scarf stands with their back to the camera, looking toward a snow-covered house on an overcast winter day.

As a counselor, I often find myself talking—and thinking—about how challenging transitions can be. They happen constantly in our daily lives, sometimes without us even noticing. One of the simplest transitions we make as humans is the shift from sleeping to being awake. Even that takes a moment: figuring out the time, the day, and what lies ahead.

In a similar way, college students experience a major shift when moving from the independence and academic pressure of the semester to being back at home for winter break. And for many, this transition isn’t an easy one.

For some students, being home can feel more stressful than being at school. As we enter the holiday season, it’s important to acknowledge that going home doesn’t look or feel the same for everyone. Some students return to routines that feel comforting; others return to environments that feel complicated, overwhelming, or emotionally draining. Being suddenly immersed in a different pace of life—or surrounded by family members who may unintentionally challenge the boundaries and coping skills you’ve worked hard to build—can be difficult.

While plenty of students look forward to winter break, many don’t. Some anticipate returning to family dynamics that are dysfunctional, unpredictable, or simply not supportive. If you’re not feeling excited about going home, you’re not alone—and there are ways to make this transition more manageable.

Below are a few strategies that can help:

Tips for Navigating Winter Break

1. Manage expectations before going home

Communicate your plans for the break ahead of time. Let your family know what you’ll need, what your schedule may look like, and what they can realistically expect from you.

2. Set clear boundaries

Just like expectations, boundaries work best when communicated early and directly. Remember: a boundary isn’t truly a boundary unless it’s clear—and unless you have a plan for what happens if it’s crossed.

3. Create a flexible routine

Rest is important, but having some structure can help you stay grounded. Consider setting a consistent wake-up time, planning a few activities you enjoy, or creating gentle routines that give your days shape.

4. Schedule intentional alone time

It’s okay to step away, decompress, and reset. Make space for quiet moments—whether that’s taking a walk, reading, journaling, or simply giving yourself a break from questions and family dynamics.

5. Create a safety plan if going home feels emotionally or physically unsafe

If you know that being home is particularly challenging, prepare ahead of time. Identify where you can go, who you can contact, and what steps you’ll take if you begin to feel unsafe. (Resources are listed below.)

Remember: It’s Okay if This Transition Feels Hard

Returning home for winter break can bring up a lot of emotions, and it’s completely valid if excitement isn’t one of them. Having a plan in place can make the experience a bit more manageable. Be gentle with yourself, show yourself compassion, and remember that support is available.