Managing Mental Health During Holidays

The holiday season can be a wonderful time filled with joy, celebration, and spending time with loved ones. However, it can also bring added stress, pressure, and overwhelming emotions.

According to a study conducted by NAMI, it was found that 64% of individuals experience worsened mental health symptoms during the holiday season. Especially if you family has gone through a change this year like loss of a family member or an unexpected health diagnosis. Add in the work stress to this mix and we have a recipe for poor mental wellbeing.

Here are some strategies to help you with managing mental health during holidays:

Set Realistic Expectations

Recognize that perfection is not the goal. Embrace the imperfections and be realistic about what you can accomplish and how you want to feel during the holidays. Set realistic expectations for yourself and others to avoid unnecessary pressure and stress.

Prioritize Your Wellbeing

Take a moment to accept and acknowledge your needs. It’s essential to prioritize your own mental and physical well-being. Be kind to yourself and put yourself first. Take the time to recognize what triggers your stress and anxiety during the holiday season. Are you overwhelmed by shopping for gifts? Do certain situations leave you feeling physically and mentally agitated? Once you become aware of these triggers, you can take proactive steps to avoid or cope with the stress they may cause. Remember, self-care and self-awareness are key to maintaining your well-being during this time.

Set Boundaries

It’s crucial to set boundaries during the holiday season. Learn to say no to activities or events that overwhelm you or interfere with your well-being. Prioritize your mental health by setting clear boundaries with both yourself, your social circle, and at work. Making a day-to-day schedule helps ensure you don’t feel overwhelmed by everyday tasks and deadlines.

Take Breaks

Holiday festivities and obligations can be overwhelming. Remember to take breaks and give yourself space to rest and recharge. Schedule in downtime, even if it’s just a few minutes to yourself. Use this time to practice deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness to help reduce stress and increase relaxation. Try the breathing exercises on my YouTube channel.

Offer Thanks

Boost your mental health during the holiday season by practicing gratitude. Take a few moments to reflect on the things in your life that you are grateful for and create a gratitude list. Consider the people, experiences, and opportunities that have brought joy, love, and fulfillment into your life. Once you’ve identified these things, take the time to express your gratitude to those who have been a support system throughout the year. It could be a friend, colleague, or family member who has had a positive impact on you. Research has shown that practicing gratitude can lead to significant improvements in mental health, including increased feelings of happiness and decreased symptoms of depression.

Manage Finances Wisely

Financial strain can significantly impact your mental health during the holidays. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Avoid getting caught up in the pressure to overspend and focus on meaningful, thoughtful gifts or experiences rather than materialistic ones. Seek alternatives like homemade gifts or organizing group activities to reduce financial stress.

Seek Support

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your mental health during the holidays, reach out for support. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. They can provide guidance, a listening ear, and help you navigate any difficult emotions or challenges you may be experiencing.

Remember, taking care of your mental health during the holidays is crucial for your overall well-being. By setting realistic expectations, practicing self-care, setting boundaries, offering thanks, managing finances wisely, and seeking support, you can create a healthier and more enjoyable holiday season for yourself.