Keep Tabs on Your Mental Health this Holiday Season

It's okay not to be okay

Mental Health Trends During the Holidays
The holidays are a time when people are under an immense amount of stress. This can lead to mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. It is important for mental health professionals to be aware of these trends so that they can help their clients during this difficult time. Additionally, parents should be aware of these trends so that they can be on the lookout for signs of distress in their children.

The holiday season can be a difficult time for many people
Many people appreciate the joys of the festive season and look forward to it each year, however this is not true for everyone. For some, the holidays can represent a difficult time and can be a stark reminder of what they are missing out on. This may be especially true after the disruption caused by the pandemic. Mental health support services have seen an increase in demand at this time of year, so it is important we take extra care to look after ourselves and those around us and remember there are always places we can turn when in need of help or comfort.

Mental health trends during the holidays include increased anxiety and depression
During the festive holiday season, many individuals struggle with heightened feelings of anxiety and depression. This is common in people who feel overwhelmed by family commitments or those suffering from loneliness due to being separated from loved ones. Others may find the additional pressure of gift-buying or organizing events to be an extra burden on their mental health. It is important to recognize these difficulties and make time for self-care, whether that entails seeking out a supportive friend or finding a mental health professional to help process any underlying issues. Taking care of one’s own mental health helps bring joy back into this season of celebration.

There are several things that you can do to help manage your mental health during the holidays
There are several helpful ways to positively manage your mental health during the holidays. Whether it is intentional breathing exercises or participating in activities that help you decompress, these actions help create a sense of clarity and contentment throughout the holiday season. Additionally, planning ahead for potential confrontations between family members can help to minimize stress and help manage difficult emotions if they arise unexpectedly. Lastly, taking care of yourself by getting adequate rest, eating nourishing meals, and staying active through regular exercise can help boost your physical health as well as overall mental wellbeing. With these tips in mind, you can increase your resilience during the hectic holiday season.

Some of these things include staying active, spending time with loved ones, and taking breaks when needed
Taking care of yourself is essential in maintaining both physical and mental health. Finding simple activities that make you feel good, like staying physically active, socializing with family and friends, and taking breaks from responsibilities should be part of your daily routine. Exercising can reduce stress and anxieties while strengthening your body, which is key for a healthy lifestyle. Making time to connect with loved ones provides joy, comfort, and can even lower blood pressure. Additionally, taking breaks by watching a movie or listening to music offers some degree of relief from your everyday duties. Remember that relaxation helps when you’re feeling overwhelmed; it’s ok to take some “you-time” every so often!

If you are feeling overwhelmed or struggling during the holidays, reach out to a mental health professional for help
It can be easy to become overwhelmed and overburdened, especially during this time of year. You are not alone; holiday stress is a common struggle. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from a mental health professional. Talking alongside an experienced counselor or therapist is a great way to lower stress levels and gain valuable insight into your emotions, helping you cope with whatever emotions you may be feeling during this time of year. Within moments you could start on the path to finding relief- giving yourself permission to process openly and freely in order to move forward in a healthy manner. Don’t let overwhelming feelings stand in the way of your happiness this holiday season; instead, take action and seek out the support of a qualified professional.

The holiday season can be a difficult and overwhelming time for many people. If you are struggling with your mental health during this time, know that you are not alone. There are several things that you can do to help manage your mental health during the holidays, including staying active, spending time with loved ones, and taking breaks when needed. If you are feeling overwhelmed or struggling during the holidays, reach out to a mental health professional for help. Best Point Education & Behavioral Health is here to support you through this time through an array of evidence-based programs and services. Visit www.bestpoint.org to explore the services we provide.