7 Simple Secrets for Maintaining Mental Health During the Holidays

7 Simple Secrets for Maintaining Mental Health During the Holidays

During the holiday season, those living with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, stress and grief can experience an increase in symptoms related to their condition, leaving one to feel alone and hopeless during this time. Many factors contribute to this including financial stress, fatigue, general stress, overwhelming schedules, travel, high expectations, separation from family and friends and stressful social or family gatherings. While things can feel overwhelming, making your own self-care a priority can greatly decrease the negative impact of stress and increase your ability to cope. Below is a list of 7 simple, yet effective, secrets that can help you get the most out of the holiday season.

1. Self-care is crucial: You cannot take care of others if you are not taking care of yourself. Put your own oxygen mask on first, right? Make it a point to take some time each week doing something you enjoy, relaxing and recharging. Get plenty of rest, do the things you love, ask for help so that you can have some time for YOU. When you are rested, fulfilled and calm you will have more energy to give to getting things done and being there for others.  

2. Plan ahead: This can be beneficial both financially and emotionally. Knowing what to expect decreases the likelihood of panic and anxiety. Look at your finances ahead and time and know what you can spend. Get things on the calendar early so that you can spread out the social commitments if possible.  

3. Know that it’s ok to say NO: Everyone has limits. Maintain your boundaries and don’t over commit yourself. In alignment with secret #2, you don’t have to attend all the things. If you plan ahead and see that there is too much in one time period, say no to what you can in order to respect your need for space, rest and self-care.

4. Maintain your healthy habits: Don’t let your habits fall away. This includes continuing to participate in what’s worked for you as far as exercise, healthy eating, work-life balance, meditation - whatever it is that helps you feel healthy. If eating healthy is important to you, eat a healthy snack before attending parties so that you will not be tempted to over-indulge.  

5. Communicate your feelings and circumstances with someone you trust: If you are having a hard time, grieving a loved one or struggling with your mental health, make sure someone in your life knows. Lean on them for support, both physically and emotionally. Let them know if you need them to just listen or if you want their advice. If you have current or a history of serious mental health struggles, make a plan with someone your trust of what to do if you are in crisis or need emergency attention.   

6. Be realistic: Keep your expectations realistic. You know yourself better than anyone else. If you don’t think you have the stamina for 4 parties in one week, don’t do it. Also, don’t plan for the moon if you don’t have the means. Again, it’s ok to say no, and that includes refraining from buying the $500 Lego set that’s not in your budget.  

7. Seek out professional help: Don’t be afraid to seek out the help of a licensed mental health professional. They can help you through therapy, community resources and/or support groups. See below for contact information for local and national resources.  

In addition to engaging in your own self-care, it’s important to be able to recognize worsening symptoms in both yourself and your loved ones and seek the appropriate professional help and social support.  

What are the warning signs of depression and/or anxiety? 

• Fatigue or lack of energy 
• Isolation or withdrawal from others 
• Lack of motivation or desire to do typically enjoyable activities 
• Lack of enjoyment of activities 
• Increased tearfulness  
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness 
• Changes in appetite 
• Changes in sleep patterns 
• Irritability (especially in children or teens) 
• Difficulty concentrating
• Frequent worry or nervousness 
• Weight loss or weight gain 
• Difficulty making decisions 
• Self-harm 

If you or someone you love is experiencing some of these signs on a regular basis, seek professional support and check in with them often. Beacon of Light is here to help. We can connect your with resources and help you get scheduled with a licensed counselor. Call, email or click “Get Help” on our website.  

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Additional Resources

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255

National Crisis Text Line text “HOME” to 741741

References:

www.mayoclinic.org

www.nami.org

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