Managing Your Mind Through The Holidays: Navigating Seasonal Struggles
The holiday season is upon us and with its festive spirit and joyous gatherings, many folks eagerly await the upcoming fun. Yet, alongside the anticipation and excitement, the holidays can bring a unique set of challenges that can weigh heavily on some individuals leading to loneliness, stress and reminders of what, or who, is missing in their lives. According to a survey by the National Alliance of Mental Illness, individuals living with a mental illness reported that their conditions worsened around the holidays. Understanding and managing these seasonal struggles is important for maintaining mental well-being and truly enjoying the essence of the holidays.
During the holiday season, it’s crucial for an individual to be aware of what can trigger one’s anxiety or depression to ensure they’re taking optimal care of themselves and fully embracing the joy of the holidays. Mental health remains a priority throughout the year, and it’s clear that negative thoughts don’t pause for holiday celebrations. At Care About Me, we’re dedicated to being a pillar of support for you. Below, we dive into some tips to manage your mind this season.
Set Realistic Expectations
Understanding that the idealized version of a holiday celebration that is often portrayed in film is not always an achievable one. In fact, holidays can cause turmoil or bring up traumatic experiences from the past. Moving into the holiday season, accepting that some aspects of the holiday celebration may not go as planned and instead, focusing on the value of shared moments over perfection can significantly reduce stress. Celebrate small victories and cherish the time spent with loved ones.
Budget Wisely
Financial stress can be a significant burden during the holiday season. To manage this, start by creating a detailed budget that accounts for all expected expenses, including gifts, decorations and meals. Exploring creative gift-giving ideas, such as DIY gifts or offering your time and skills (like cooking a meal or helping with household chores), can add a personal touch without breaking the bank. Remember, the thought and love behind a gift are what truly count.
Seek Support
The holidays can amplify feelings of loneliness or exacerbate existing mental health, substance use or addiction challenges. Actively reaching out to your support network like friends, family or community groups can provide a sense of belonging and shared understanding. Even if you can’t be together in person, a simple phone call, video chat or handwritten letter can make a big difference in how connected and supported you feel. If needed, consider seeking professional help through Care About Me, which can help to navigate difficult emotions. Support groups, both in-person and online, can also offer comfort and a sense of community.
Establish Boundaries
Setting clear boundaries is essential for preserving your energy and well-being. This may involve limiting your engagement in activities you find draining or openly communicating your needs to family and friends. Learning to delegate tasks and saying no to additional responsibilities can also help manage stress levels. The holiday calendar can fill up quickly with social events, family gatherings, and holiday preparations. When planning your schedule, actively block out periods of downtime. Use this time to relax, recharge, or engage in activities that bring you joy and peace. Remember, it’s okay to decline invitations if it means protecting your mental and emotional well-being.
Honor Your Feelings
From joy to sadness, the holiday season can evoke a wide range of emotions. It’s important to acknowledge and validate your feelings, whatever they may be. If you’re experiencing grief, finding unique ways to remember and honor those you have lost, such as lighting a candle or sharing favorite stories about them with others, can be healing.
Practice Mindful Eating and Drinking
The abundance of food and drink during the holidays can sometimes lead to overindulgence, which can affect your mental health. Try to enjoy holiday treats mindfully, savoring each bite and being conscious of your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Remember, it’s about balance and not deprivation or overstimulation.
Find Moments for Yourself
In the midst of holiday preparations and celebrations, personal time is often overlooked. Prioritizing self-care activities that nourish your body and mind is key. This could be as simple as enjoying a quiet morning with a cup of coffee, practicing yoga, reading before bed, a quick workout or engaging in a hobby you love. Even short breaks can make a difference in your overall well-being while providing a sense of normalcy and control.
Volunteer
Giving back to others can be incredibly fulfilling and a powerful antidote to the stress and commercialism of the season. Look for opportunities to volunteer in your community, whether it’s at a local food bank, shelter or another organization that resonates with you. Helping those in need can provide a sense of purpose and perspective.
Limit Social Media
While sharing holiday moments is fun, constant comparison with others’ curated posts can be detrimental to your mental health. Try to limit your social media use and focus on creating genuine connections and memories.
By applying these expanded strategies, you can navigate the complexities of managing your mental health during demanding times with greater ease and resilience. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish — it’s necessary for enjoying life’s moments to the fullest.
If you are a Pinellas County resident and are looking to be connected with support for mental health, substance use or addiction support, contact our trained Care About Me specialists for help. Call or text “CARE” to 1-888-431-1998, or visit our website at careaboutme.org/residents.
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Care About Me is not a crisis line. If you or someone you know is facing a mental health emergency, please call 911. For those dealing with thoughts of self-harm or in need of emotional support, please reach out to the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline.
