The holidays are here, and so are a variety of emotions that we may experience as we navigate the holiday season. Some people are ready to jump into the holiday spirit, while others are not and only want the year to end as soon as possible. Holidays can cause feelings of loneliness and isolation, financial pressure to give “good” gifts, trigger grief due to absence of loved ones during gatherings, pressure to have the “perfect” holiday experience, and stress trying to navigate complicated family dynamics. It is important that although the holiday season is upon us, we focus on our mental health and keep our routine going as steady as possible. I want to let you know that it is okay to celebrate the holidyas, and it is also okay to not celebrate them. Below I will be sharing with you a few different ways to manage your mental health during the holidays season.
Prioritize Self-Care & Routines
Set time for activities that help recharge you. Calm your mind by practicing relaxation techniques and maintain physical health by sticking to your regular sleep, diet, and exercise schedule as much as possible. Physical health can directly impact mental health, so feeling physically good = good mood. Incorporate calming activities like reading, meditation, mindfulness, journaling, or other hobbies that help slow down and reduce stress.
Set Boundaries
Be willing to say “no” to situations or events that can cause triggers and stress. It is okay to decline invitations that will cause you more stress than joy. You can also practice setting boundaries by setting a limit to your time spent at events to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Try to be realistic about your time and energy. Shift your focus on activities you genuinely enjoy rather than feeling obligated to engage in everything. Also, set a limit to social media consumption–be mindful about how online content can affect you.
Manage Your Emotional State
Recognize and allow yourself to feel your emotions without judgment. It is better to acknowledge your feelings at the moment you are experiencing them, accept that you feel a certain way, and ask yourself how you can manage and process these emotions that are arising. Practicing gratitude and taking the time to reflect on the good things in your life can help boost your mood. Further, grief can come in waves during this season. You are allowed to acknowledge your happy memories, but also remember to be gentle with yourself if you are grieving loss. You can focus on creating new positive memories during your healing process.
Connect with Others
Make an effort to stay in touch with family and friends through calls, video calls, or in-person to combat the feelings of isolation and loneliness. Spend time with friends or family who make you feel good. These calls or meetings can be any length you’d feel comfortable with. Another way to connect is by engaging in volunteer work–giving back can be a meaningful way to connect with others and find purpose.
Seek professional help if the feelings of sadness or anxiety become overwhelming. The earlier the intervention, the better. If you are experiencing severe stress, anxiety, or depression which begins to impact your daily life and tasks, talk to your primary care provider or therapist. If you feel you are in crisis, call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
While taking everything into account, developing a plan ahead of time for when you are feeling stressed, sad, or lonely can help ensure the difficult moments are more manageable. An example of a plan can include the topics mentioned above (calling a friend, going for a walk, engaging in an activity that brings joy, watching a favorite movie, etc.).
Ready to Start Your Mental Health Journey?
Taking the first step can be daunting, but we’re here to support you. Visit our website KCW Psychological Services to learn more about how we can help you navigate grief and loss. Please use the link below to book a consultation with your preferred KCW PSYCH therapist for support with managing your mental health.
CLICK HERE to book your consultation with Calendly.
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