The holiday season can be both joyful and challenging, especially for mental well-being. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the season while prioritizing your mental health.
1. Evaluate Family Dynamics and Your Coping Strategies
The holidays can bring us close to family, which might mean spending more time with loved ones whose company is comforting — or complicated.
- Take Stock of Family Dynamics: Acknowledge which relationships are supportive, and which may create stress. Prepare for different dynamics that could arise.
- Strengthen Your Coping Tools: Bring along strategies that help keep you calm and grounded — breathing exercises, a quick walk outside, or a friend you can text for support.
2. Focus on Wellness Basics
With shorter days and limited sunlight, the foundation of our well-being can slip without us noticing. Even if you’re enjoying the holiday spirit, make time to return to the basics of mental health.
- Sleep: Stick to a consistent sleep schedule to help keep energy and mood stable.
- Nutrition: Balanced meals support energy and mental clarity, with a sweet treat or two!
- Movement: A daily walk, stretching, or any form of exercise that you can manage.
- Sunlight and Fresh Air: Seek out daylight when you can — bundle up and take a brief walk outdoors to soak up sunshine and fresh air.
3. Make a Plan in Advance
If holidays are hard for you, it can be helpful to create a plan for the days that feel the most challenging.
- Social Plans: Reach out to friends who may be free to get together, or consider traveling to be with a friend or chosen family.
- Create a Personal Wellness Package: If travel or social plans aren’t possible, curate a few comforts for yourself: a favorite book, some cozy socks, a journal, soothing teas, and your favorite movies. This kit can help you stay occupied and bring comfort during any tough moments.
4. Practice Acceptance
The holidays don’t have to be perfect or filled with “magic.” Some years are quieter, more reflective, or just downright hard, and accepting that can actually ease stress.
- Embrace Reality: Remind yourself that it’s okay if things feel different this year. Take note of any small, meaningful moments instead of focusing on expectations.
- Release Pressure for Perfection: Perfection isn’t the goal. The holidays can be whatever you need them to be. Redefining your expectations can make room for a new kind of peace.
5. Set Boundaries with Social Media
Social media can sometimes heighten feelings of comparison, especially during the holidays. People often post the highlights, making it easy to feel like others are having a picture-perfect season.
- Set Limits on Screen Time: Consider setting specific times for social media and logging off when scrolling starts to affect your mood.
- Focus on Reality, Not Highlights: Remember that what people post is often a curated version of their lives. Celebrate your own moments, however small they may feel.
The holiday season doesn’t have to be a picture-perfect experience to be meaningful. By focusing on these principles, you can protect your mental health and find moments of joy, peace, and gratitude throughout the season. Remember, taking care of yourself is always in season.