Tips to Boost Mental Health Ahead of the Holidays
The statistics surrounding mental health are alarming. A study by the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) in 2021 found that 3 out of 4 people shared that their mental health worsened during the holiday season. The reasons varied, but financial pressures, conflict with family members, loss of loved ones and busy schedules were common reasons that aided in a declined mental health state of being.
Jess Peters with Spruce Row Farm in Meadville, Pa., says that there is so much pressure with the added expectations to be jolly and end the year on a high note.
“Most of us will spend a ton of time over the next few weeks surrounded by family and that’s great, but when you need to be alone. Be alone. Last year, I was feeling crazy overwhelmed and showed up to our family’s annual Christmas Eve dinner (the only formal Christmas tradition we have) an hour and a half after the rest of my family,” she says. “It felt amazing.”
The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences offers these options if you notice your mental health worsening during the holidays.
- Practice self-care. What activities help you feel refreshed or relaxed? Taking a walk around your property, watching a favorite movie, or driving through a Christmas light display in your community are all simple activities that can bring happiness.
- Avoid negative coping strategies. It is common for people to enjoy alcoholic beverages, but excessive drinking to change your mood can harm your physical and mental health.
- Set healthy boundaries. It is okay to say “no” or “not right now.” If your schedule is too busy, consider limiting the number of invitations you accept. If family gatherings are a little contentious, plan to stay for only an hour or two.
- Follow your routine. Enjoy holiday treats and remember your veggies and protein. Settle in for a fun movie night and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Proper rest and nutrition help your mental health tremendously!
- Acknowledge your feelings. Talk to a trusted friend or family member and tell them how you feel. Sometimes, just saying words out loud can help remove a burden from our minds. Your loved ones may also be able to provide additional support.
Peters says this year she is taking the pressure off.
“Yes, 2022 is ending and 2023 is beginning. But that doesn’t mean I’m going to magically become a new person. You can do that any day of the year. New year, same you,” she says. “That’s ok.”
Help is Available:
- 988 – call or text this number 24/7 to be connected to the Suicide and Crisis Prevention Lifeline. A trained counselor will listen to you, support you, and share resources in your area.
- 741741 – text the Crisis Lifeline 24/7 to connect with a trained counselor.
- 911 – if you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts or a medical emergency, call emergency services immediately.
The holidays can be a time of excitement and happiness and can also be challenging. Peters’ shares that for a lot of people, this time of year means grief.
“We tend to reflect around the holidays and miss the people we’ve lost who we love most. If that’s you, I’m so sorry because grief is a beast for which there is little to no advice,” she says. “Take solace in the fact that you loved so deeply, and they loved you in return. And if that’s true, they wouldn’t want you to stop living your life because of them. Live for them. Whatever anyone tells you, some kinds of grief are forever. It’s our job to learn how to live through it.”
