Mental Health During the Holidays

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As we enter the holiday season, it can be helpful to remember that these times can be stressful for many people. In fact, one NAMI study showed that 64% of people with a mental illness felt worse during this season.

So what can we do? Take a look at the tips below, and sift through for ideas that are helpful for you. We are all different. Doing everything every day is more likely to make you feel crazy than help you stay sane. Think about what has helped in the past, and experiment slowly from there.

  • Make Time for Gratitude This can be a helpful way to refocus your view of events toward the positive, and acknowledging the good around you.
  • Manage Your Time “Plan for the worst and hope for the best” when you schedule out your days. Definitely don’t try to do too much!
  • Set or Maintain Boundaries Social dynamics are complex and can be intense! If you know you are going into a more challenging gathering, identify a person you can take a walk or side conversation with for a quick break.  Confirm that they are up for it and offer to be there for them too.
  • Be Realistic Don’t feel like your life needs to be a car commercial or reminiscent of your social media feed.  
  • Prioritize Self Care and Relaxation Whether this means time to do your art, hobbies, meditation, or reading, taking time to recharge can help you cope
  • Schedule Exercise Whether you are blowing off steam, walking your dog or trying to maintain your gains, regular exercise is great for mental health
  • Eat Well This fundamental form of self-care can help you feel your best and be your best.
  • Get Plenty of Sleep Learn the ways to ensure you get the best sleep possible, and plenty of it. There are many strategies for this, experiment and find what works best for you.
  • Minimize Alcohol and Other Substances Although many people drink due to social anxiety, it doesn’t relieve stress and can actually make stress and mental health issues worse.
  • Spend Time in Nature This can be by yourself, to recharge or you can take an inside gathering out for for a hike, bonfire, etc.
  • Volunteer Helping others can be a wonderful way to feel less lonely, more connected to the community, and genuinely happy about how you spent your time
  • Find Support Make a list of every member of your support system, and what types of things you would call them for. Neighbors, best friends, significant other? You can schedule therapy sessions in advance, or seek help as needed.

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