Thanksgiving is a tricky holiday to navigate. Although it’s meant to be, well, a thankful time of year, it can still be painful for many. The history behind the holiday, the emphasis of being around family, and the potential of being around all kinds of triggers can make the upcoming week mentally taxing. Others might be anxious about the expectation of cooking for hours, while many might be grieving this year due to losses of those close to them or not being able to hold a “traditional” Thanksgiving due to the pandemic.
For today’s resources, we wanted to share a few stories about coping during Thanksgiving that you can also share with your child. They cover a variety of potential triggers, and if they aren’t able to relate to any of them, at least they can understand that they’re not alone if this time of year is harder for them than others.
A Thanksgiving Message from Seven Amazing Native Americans
How to Cope with an Eating Disorder During the Holidays
Dear Therapist: My Dad Expects Me to Spend Thanksgiving with His New Family
15 Women on How They Cope with Grief Around the Holidays
What is Thanksgiving looking like for you this year? Have you asked your child about how they are feeling about Thanksgiving? What would you do for them if they are dreading it? Are there signs you are looking out for?