Put Mental Health First This Holiday Season

Sadness can be challenging to cope with when all around you people are singing about how this is “the most wonderful time of the year.” The truth is that, for many, this can be the most difficult time of the year. If you find yourself feeling anxious for the holidays, you are certainly not alone. 

Here are a few steps you can take to prioritize your mental health during this hectic season:

Accept Your Feelings
Holidays can bring up a range of emotions for people. Sometimes you can even experience seemingly contradictory emotions all at once. Try your best to acknowledge and accept your emotions rather than place judgment on them. It’s OK to feel happy; it’s OK to feel sad; it’s even OK to feel both happy and sad. Give yourself compassion and allow yourself to sit with whatever you’re feeling.

Maintain Healthy Habits
For many people, holidays lead to a massive disruption in your day-to-day routine. But maintaining healthy habits like going to therapy, getting enough sleep and exercising are critical to keeping your mental health on track.

Set Boundaries
People like to be generous during the holidays, but that generosity doesn’t have to come at the expense of having healthy boundaries. If hosting an event or buying an expensive gift is too stressful, it’s OK to say no. It’s also OK to limit the time you spend with family that you may have a complicated dynamic with.

Make Time to Connect
Connection and meaning are critical to our mental health. Make time for your important relationships and connect with yourself through self-care. You can even gather and reminisce with family to honor those who are not with you this year.

Reach Out
The Bradley Center is here if you or a loved one need assistance urgently. Call 706-320-3700 or visit MyStFrancis.com/Help for additional information.