Self-Care During the Holiday Season
While the holidays might be a time of joy for some, this season can also bring about feelings of stress and worry. In fact, these uncomfortable feelings are more common than you might think.
Gail Harrison
While the holidays might be a time of joy for some, this season can also bring about feelings of stress and worry. In fact, these uncomfortable feelings are more common than you might think. According to an APA survey from 2022, roughly one third of Americans expected “to be more stressed this holiday season than last year.” If you are experiencing worry and distress this holiday season, you are not alone! You might be off for the holidays, but find yourself busier than ever. Stressors can range from hosting to gift-shopping to financial expenses. Some may also find themselves experiencing grief or feelings of loneliness during this time. It is important to remember that mental health is a pillar of our overall well-being, and to prioritize it! Here are some tips to support your mental and emotional health throughout the holiday season.
Stay in the moment! Mindfulness is a useful tool that can be utilized throughout the year, it can be especially helpful during the holidays. A couple ways to implement mindfulness involving accepting imperfection and approaching situations without judgment. This attitude assists with alleviating stress and reframing your perspective. Two valuable questions to consider are the following: “Even if this moment seems stressful, can I find a way to make it pleasant?” and “Can I use this moment of frustration as an opportunity to reflect?” Remember, mindfulness doesn’t have to be a structured meditation, you can practice it anywhere, even standing in line at a grocery store! (Gould, n.d.). If you are currently in therapy, it is especially important to continue with treatment throughout this time, and work through your stress with the help of a professional.
As previously mentioned, grief can be prevalent during this time period. While it might be instinctual to suppress thoughts about a lost one, finding a way to honor or celebrate them can help with feelings of grief and sadness (Faria, 2022). While this approach is not a magic pill, it might help alleviate suffering and make your holiday season a little bit brighter.
While the topic of money can be uncomfortable, it is important to bring awareness to financial burden during the holidays, which can be a stressor for folks. Instead of overspending on materialistic gifts, consider showing appreciation through quality time or handmade presents. (APA, 2022). Kind interactions and offering support for your loved ones can be far more meaningful than luxury items.
Lastly, take a break and get some fresh air! While warmth is a rarity during the winter months, taking a walk outside and exposing yourself to sunlight is scientifically proven to lower stress levels and help your mental health (APA, 2022). It can also be a great way to spend some alone time and get away from stressful family dynamics!
There should never be a stigma surrounding taking care of your mental health, regardless of the time of year. If you are in need of affordable mental health services, the Dean Hope Center is available to help, and you can submit an application via our website.
Sources:
https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/seven-ways-to-cope-with-holiday-stress
https://www.caring-crate.com/blogs/caring-crate-blog/tagged/holidays