December comes hand-in-hand with cheer, hustle and bustle, and Holiday spirit. But it also comes with anxiety, grief, and family strain for a lot of individuals. Holiday’s can be a challenging time, and according to a NAMI study, 64% of people with mental illness shared that holidays make their condition worse. How do we approach upcoming holidays with a healthy state of mind? Addressing your mental health needs to be a priority, especially during the holidays. Below are three steps you can take to help reduce stress and anxiety during the busy season.
Address your needs first: This might be controversial, but you need to meet your needs first before giving to others. The holidays often emphasize the importance of family and friends, but if family and friends are not a safe space for you, you need to recognize those emotions and feelings and address them before moving forward.
Set boundaries: Relationships are diverse and can be complex. Establishing boundaries beforehand helps eliminate stress and anxiety. Setting boundaries can be uncomfortable, but sharing your expectations will help keep you safe and make clear to family and friends what is acceptable and not acceptable. Some examples may be no alcohol allowed, a limit for the number of gifts given, not including an invite for an individual, and deciding where events will take place. Be kind and respectful, but clear and direct.
Be active and alert: Consistent exercise is a natural way to fight anxiety and depression and boost dopamine. Eating well should also be a priority. Of course you are allowed to eat the pumpkin pie and drink eggnog, just remember moderation is key and eating healthy will stabilize your mood. Proper rest is a necessity as well. Mental illnesses are often heightened when you do not receive proper rest.We hope as the holidays approach, you take the time and space you need to be able to celebrate in a happy and safe environment. To learn more about how we can help prepare you, contact me today. Happy Holidays!
