We all know that the holiday season can be difficult for many people, but knowing how exactly to make it better can be a little more complicated!
How exactly do you stay healthy and happy during the holidays? Well, here are our top five therapist-recommended tips:
#1. Set Boundaries
Often a lot of stress and overwhelm comes from a lack of boundaries. You feel like you need to please everyone and do everything in a very short amount of time. That can make anyone feel anxious!
Many hear "boundaries" and immediately feel rude and guilty. But you don't have to be rude to express that you need a little extra time to yourself or that perhaps you are unable to do something this yes. It's okay to say "No" and take time just to relax and recharge!
#2. Stick To A Budget
Before you do gift and food shopping, it's helpful to decide how much money you can afford to spend! Attempting to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts will only lead to disappointment and more trouble later.
If you have a significant other, it's helpful to sit down with them and decide together what your household can afford and what that looks like for gifts, meals, holiday parties, etc.
If you're single, still take the time to map this out. Your wallet will thank you later!
#3. It's okay to do things just for YOU
We all have obligations and things we do to keep traditions, however, doing things YOU want to do and not just what everyone else wants to do can help you maintain a sense of peace and calm in the chaos. Imagine how much better the quality of time you spend with friends and family this year will be if you also take time to pour into yourself and find your own joy. I imagine it would be significant.
#4. Go on walks
Get outside, even if it's cold! This is so helpful! Most of us eat a lot on holidays — sweets and — so going for a walk to get a little bit of exercise can help our moods and stress levels. Feel better and make room for more of grandma's cooking!
#5. Don't make food or alcohol your therapy
Enjoy the food, yes! Have a great time and socialize to your heart's content! But don't forget to check in with yourself when needed, and don't be afraid to step away from the holiday festivities if you’re becoming overwhelmed.
Food is great, but it doesn't actually make feelings of resentment, stress, anger, fear, hurt, or worry go away. It just pushes them down to come up another day. Better to take a walk or a time out and deal with those emotions. Reset and return to your plans feeling better.
And of course, if you need additional support, feel free to reach out to us at Mindsight. We have immediate openings to help you find the support and resources you need to feel better faster during the holidays!
Caitlin Bloom, LPCA
Caitlin is a Behavioral Health Clinician who enjoys reading, writing, as well as spending time with her husband and cat, Coffeebean, when she’s not counseling others. Caitlin likes helping clients guide themselves into deeper meaning, purpose, and connection for their lives. She focuses on finding resources, techniques, and coping skills on their journey for further fulfillment.
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