5 Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health this Holiday Season
The holiday season is often portrayed as the most wonderful time of the year, but it can be stressful and overwhelming for many of us. Between gift shopping, family gatherings, and numerous holiday events, it's easy to feel like we're constantly on the go and not taking care of ourselves. There are also many of us struggling with immense grief this holiday season. It’s important to remember that our mental health should always be a priority, especially during this busy and sometimes difficult time of year. In this blog post, we'll share five simple ways you can take care of your mental health this holiday season.
Set Realistic Expectations for Yourself and Others
It's easy to get caught up in the idea of the "perfect" holiday season – the perfect tree, decorations, and gifts. However, striving for perfection can be incredibly detrimental to our mental health. Instead, set realistic expectations for yourself and others. Don't feel like you have to attend every holiday event or buy the perfect gift for everyone on your list. It's okay to say no and focus on what's truly important to you. Remember, the holidays are about spending quality time with loved ones, not trying to achieve perfection.
Make Time for Self-Care
With everything going on during the holiday season, it's easy to neglect our own needs. However, making time for self-care is essential for our mental well-being. This could mean taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk outside, or simply taking a few minutes to meditate or practice deep breathing. Whatever it is that helps you unwind and recharge, make sure you're prioritizing it during this busy time of year. You'll feel more relaxed and energized to tackle all the holiday tasks.
Stay Active
Exercise is a proven mood-booster, so making time for physical activity during the holiday season is important for our mental health. You don't have to hit the gym every day – even a short walk around the block or some stretching at home can be beneficial. Not only will exercise help improve your mood, but it will also help you manage stress and anxiety. Staying active can also help counteract some of the indulgences that often come with holiday celebrations.
Practice Gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful tool for improving our mental well-being. During the holidays, it's easy to get caught up in all the things we don't have or the stressors we're facing. But taking time to focus on what we're grateful for can help shift our perspective and bring more joy into our lives. Whether it's writing in a gratitude journal, sharing what you're thankful for with loved ones, or simply taking a moment to reflect on the positives in your life, practicing gratitude can help combat negative thoughts and improve overall mental health.
Create a Support System
The holiday season can be lonely for many people, so creating a support system is important. This could be friends or family members you can rely on or even a therapist or support group if you need extra help. Having people you can talk to and lean on during difficult times is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Don't be afraid to reach out and ask for help if you need it – there is no shame in seeking support. And if you know someone who may be struggling, make an effort to reach out and offer your support.
Preserving your mental health during the holiday season may seem daunting, but it's undeniably worth the effort. It's okay to set boundaries, seek support, and prioritize your well-being. Amidst the hustle and bustle, try to find joy in the small moments and cherish your loved ones. Sometimes even just making it through the holiday season is a big win, as we know this time of year it’s always joyful for everyone. Take care of your mental health and do the best you can to be kind to others and yourself.
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About Gabriel's Light
In 2019, Carol and Brendan Deely founded Gabriel’s Light in honor of their son who died by suicide at age 12. In honor of Gabe and all those lost to suicide, they share their journey with the hope that others may learn and grow from their tragedy. Focusing on three pillars of cyber safety, suicide prevention, and kindness campaigns, through outreach, programs, partnerships, and funding, they raise awareness and inspire youth, parents, and educators to take action and help forward their mission.