Winter depression hits students the hardest out of anyone, and MHS students know how this dreadful time feels. With piling up homework, endless tests, and classes packed with new material, students are aware of how rough the winter season gets. However, there is a secret medicine to solve all of this: the holidays. With sparkling lights, delicious food, and daily time off to spend with friends and family, there is no better way to combat a time filled with stressful and difficult classes.
As Grace Goldsholl (‘27) noted, “ Winter break helps me reset before going back to having tests,” and “ the holidays can make winter way more special” during a time otherwise filled with monotony. Spending breaks relaxing, whether it is in a tropical climate, passing your days by the pool, or skiing down the slopes with a side of hot cocoa, this season helps students’ mental health more than any other time of the year.
Think about school times during January, February, and the later spring months. Few breaks, little to no holiday cheer, and buckets of work. To MHS student Liv Nazar (‘27), the holiday season during school is the best time of year. It makes the school day go by faster, and you always have something to look forward to. She also says, “There is more positivity during the holiday season compared to months like January.” Having more breaks during this season also contributes to less stress during the school year, making it more enjoyable. From student interviews, it is clear to conclude that having holidays is much better than the dreadful months of January and February, or even the rest of the year.
Dr. Chester, US history and AP psychology teacher, also had insightful thoughts about the correlation between holidays celebrated that have to do with light, and the benefits they bring. She notes that “lighting the Christmas tree or Hanukkah Menorah does help with seasonal depression as you are bringing light into the darkest time of the year.” This idea connects perfectly with why many students feel happier in December than in the months of January and February. During the holiday season, lights, traditions, and celebrations create a feeling of emotional warmth as the days grow shorter and darker.
The holidays give more to MHS students than just time off from school. They provide comfort, motivation, warmth, and something to look forward to during the rough months filled with schoolwork and darkness. While winter may be the darkest time of the year, the holidays fill the air with light, acting as a mental reset button for many students. Because of the holiday season, students can be reminded that joy can still be found, despite loads of homework, through traditions, family time, or even a small moment of rest when school is constantly moving.
