It’s the most wonderful time of the year. And to fully enjoy the holiday season, there are a number of ways you can manage holiday stress and support your overall well-being. We’ve put together a list of ideas to help you take care of your mental health.
Make yourself a priority.
Check in with yourself and see what invitations and demands are realistic before making any further commitments. Trying to make everyone else happy by pushing your own needs aside may become overwhelming. Take time for self-care by eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and exercising on a regular basis. You can always turn down parties and commitments if you’re feeling extremely stressed and stretched too thin.
Plan your budget ahead of time (and stick to it).
In addition to buying presents, there are many expenses with the holiday season that can add up quickly. The cost of traveling, buying food for holiday parties, sending holiday cards, and purchasing last-minute gifts can cause financial stress. Set a budget for holiday-related spending and stay true to it when unexpected expenses turn up for parties, presents, and so on.
Continue to see your therapist.
While your schedule may be filling up, keep attending your therapy sessions throughout the holiday season. He or she can help you manage and cope with depression, anxiety, and any additional stress you may be experiencing.
The holiday season is a busy time of year, it’s important to make your mental health a priority. If feelings of depression, anxiety, or stress are interfering with your home or work life, seek out professional help. Our supportive staff at Zumbro Valley Health Center provide a welcoming and positive environment to help meet your individual needs. Call us at 507.289.2089 to get started or visit our Programs & Services page to learn more about the services we offer.