Maintaining Emotional Health During the Holidays

For many people, the holidays are an exciting and joyous time. For many other people, the holidays can be a stressful or sad time due to numerous reasons including: 

• Death or loss of a loved one who used to be present at holiday gatherings
• Changes in family dynamics due to divorce, separation or break-ups
• Being unable to gather due to COVID or other health reasons
• Financial difficulties
• Busy schedules with baking, cooking, traveling, and buying gifts
• Worrying about loved ones' health
• Any other life changes or stressors

1. Accept your feelings. It is OK to not always be happy during the holidays.  You may be missing a relative who you shared happy memories with, or stressed with all you have decided to tackle.  It is normal to feel these feelings and you can’t force yourself to be happy.
2. Reach out to others. The holidays are a time often shared, so it’s important to find community.  Reach out to a friend or loved one you haven’t spoken to recently.  Reaching out to others often takes us out of our own head and worries and into the present.  You are not a burden and are loved, even if you don’t feel it!
3. Be realistic. The holidays are not perfect and can change each year (because we do too!).  Pick several traditions to keep and be open to change.  You also cannot do everything, and choosing several things to focus on helps you to feel more accomplished and less overwhelmed.
4. Don’t abandon healthy habits. It is OK and normal to enjoy your favorite pies and peppermint bark, so let yourself!  At the same time, don’t abandon all your healthy habits because this can lead guilt and discomfort.  Try these suggestions:
   • Get plenty of restful sleep
   • Eat regular meals and don't skip meals before celebrations as this often leads to overindulgence
   • Incorporate physical activity into your holiday routine
   • Remember how excessive social media and news can be detrimental to your health and be conscious of your screen time. 
5. Set boundaries. Both financially and with family and friends, it is OK and important to say “no”.  Set a budget for your gifts and stick to it.  People care much less about the exact gift someone gave him and often forget over the years.  Boundaries honor your needs.  You may experience push-back from friends or family for setting boundaries, but that doesn’t mean it was the wrong decision for you.  Taking care of your needs is your first job.
6. Take a breather. Remember to make time for self-care and recharge your batteries.  Whether you take afternoon naps, exercise, walk outside, or read a book, take time to do something that is just for YOU.
7. Seek professional help if you need it! If you still are experiencing high levels of stress after applying these tips, or if you so stressed or sad that you need immediate mental health support, please reach out for support. Asking for help is courageous and demonstrates mental strength.  Please make use of the following resources if needed during the holiday break!