HDAAC Talks to RAMS Youth About What They’re Thankful For

Thanksgiving is a time for reflecting on what brings us joy and gratitude, which can serve as protective factors against substance use and mental health struggles. Recognizing these protective factors helps build resilience and encourages positive choices.

We asked seven eighth-grade Peer Leaders from Robert Adams Middle School (RAMS) what they’re thankful for, and their answers celebrated family, community, hobbies, and friendships.

Family

The most common connection between all of their answers was family. One student shared, “I’m thankful for my family, especially my parents, because they support me in everything I do.” Many echoed the importance of this support, describing how family bonds create a foundation of trust and security. Another student said, “Whenever I’m sad or feeling down, my parents are always there to support me and make me feel better.” Some also highlighted a specifically strong connection with their mothers, with one expressing, “My mom does a lot for me. She’ll listen and help me when I’m sad.” All of these family bonds provide a crucial support system that helps students navigate life’s challenges.

Community

Students also spoke about the importance of community, emphasizing Holliston’s supportive atmosphere. One student reflected, “It’s very supportive here in Holliston,” mentioning their brother’s involvement in community service as a positive influence. This sense of belonging creates a strong network that helps students feel secure and valued, especially during challenging times. Students during this interview and in our focus groups last year expressed the inclusiveness and positivity within their school environment, echoing that the schools and overall Town of Holliston are a very positive place where the youth enjoy living and learning. 

Hobbies & Friends

Another key protective factor in people’s lives is the importance of having hobbies, teams, and friends that bring us joy and keep us from avoiding risky behaviors. One student noted, “A lot of times, people turn to drugs and alcohol if they’re sad or don’t feel like they belong, but if you do have a good support group and friends or family, you can be happier; you can feel better with your life and yourself and you won’t feel like you have to turn to that stuff.” 

When asked what keeps them away from using drugs and alcohol, one student remarked, “Usually, I do activities that I really like, including playing sports.” In addition, while group activities are a great protective factor, sometimes it’s important to have something just for yourself, for the moments of self care. One student told us, “To be happier, I always listen to music, and it helps me to think more positively.” 

Another student commented on the importance of having fun and being creative, with other or by yourself, “When you have all those different groups of people around you and all those different hobbies that you can open yourself up to enjoy being a part of, then it’s a good way to clear your mind and distract yourself.”

How They Show Support in Return

“I try to be very personable with my friends. If they’re going through a hard time, I try to put myself in their shoes, even if it’s a tough situation for me to try and do that. If they feel like they need space, then I give them what they really want and need and if they want comfort, I try my best to give them comfort,” said one student. 

Bringing it All Together

One student really highlighted what it means to show gratitude with her answer, “I try to recognize my privilege. I have a roof over my head, I have a caring family, and I have a lot of hobbies that I can turn to if I’m feeling down. I know that I’m really lucky to have these things in my life.” 

The same student also ended with, “We’re all humans, we all have feelings, and we all feel certain things. There’s 8 billion of us on this planet, and there is someone who has felt what you’re feeling. Just knowing that there are people out there who are going through the same thing is really helpful.” 

Holliston is doing an incredible job at supporting everyone in the community, especially our young people. Let us all reflect on the incredible people, activities, and things in our lives that make us truly grateful to be alive. Embrace joy this month and share how thankful you are with the people you love!

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