Jefferson County Health Department Health and the Holiday Season

While the holidays can be a time of celebration, joy, and connection, they can also bring emotional struggle and loneliness for some. From financial worries to social gatherings, the holiday season and its increased demands can take a toll on our mental health.

If you are among those feeling stress or sadness, it’s important to remember you are not alone. In a survey by the American Psychological Association, 38% of people surveyed said their stress increased during the holiday season, and the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) found that “64% of people living with mental illness report negative effects during the holidays.”

Consider the following tips to prioritize your mental well-being as you navigate the holidays.

Acknowledge and feel your feelings. It is okay not to feel merry and bright. Recognize common holiday stressors and watch for signs of mental health challenges. Mental health affects how we feel, think, and act. It also impacts our ability to enjoy our daily activities. Acknowledging stress and sadness is the first step in being able to manage them.

Prioritize healthy habits. We know the importance of spending time to recharge our mind and body. With so many distractions during the holidays, it can be a challenge to maintain healthy habits. Eating nourishing foods, making time for movement, and getting restful sleep promote physical and mental well-being. And reserving time for simple things that bring you joy can go a long way to increasing your energy level and happiness. Spend time in nature, read a good book, take a long bath, or watch your favorite holiday movie. These are investments in your well-being.

The holiday season is often associated with overindulgence. Being mindful of how much we consume, including food, alcohol, or even social media, can help ease our stress (and guilt). Practicing self-care can help us enjoy a healthier holiday.

Be realistic. Prioritizing time and spending to align with personal values and well-being is key in managing holiday-related stress. It is okay to say “no” to certain expectations, commitments, or traditions. Communicating your needs to others helps everyone know what to expect. Accept your limitations and be patient with yourself and others.

Build a support system. Finding support in your community can help us cope with loneliness, grief, and loss during the holidays. Connecting with friends and family members in meaningful ways is a great way to fight feelings of isolation.

For those who are grieving, the holidays, with all the traditions and sensations, can be especially difficult. If the holidays bring up difficult memories or challenges in gathering and celebrating, consider creating new traditions that foster happiness.

Conversely, remember to reach out to those who are suffering loss. This time of year, grief and loss can be magnified. Helping a loved one or neighbor can bring joy to them and improve our own sense of well-being.

It is important to seek support from friends, family, coworkers, support groups, or professionals if needed. Seeking help from peer support or a therapist can provide a safe place to process emotions and develop a plan for a healthy holiday season. If you or someone you know feels hopeless or their mental health struggles are becoming overwhelming, contact a healthcare professional or call 988 for help and support.

It is my hope that understanding and managing holiday-related stress, practicing self-care, nurturing your physical health, and seeking support when needed will enable you to experience increased joy and health this holiday season.

Wishing you a peaceful, healthy holiday.