7 Ways to Protect Your Mental Health Over the Holidays
You’ve made your holiday to-do list, checked it twice, and now you're feeling more overwhelmed than ever.
The holiday season is a wonderful time to get together with family and friends, make lasting memories, and reflect on what’s most important to us.
It also throws us off our normal routines, cuts back on our alone time, and creates immense pressure to make everything appear perfect – including yourself.
Here at KMA therapy, we know that even though the holidays can be one of the best times of the year, they can also be hard to navigate, especially when you’re also struggling with your mental health.
For over 14 years, we've equipped our clients with the tools they need to take control of their lives - and we’ve created a list to help you get through the holiday season.
After reading this article, you’ll know why mental health can worsen over the holidays and seven simple steps to take care of your mental health amid the holiday chaos.
Is it Normal for Mental Health to Worsen During the Holidays?
If you find yourself struggling more than usual during the holidays, you’re not alone.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, around 64% of people say the holidays cause their mental health conditions to worsen.
The holidays can lead to increased:
- Stress and tension
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Feelings of loss and grief
- Feelings of isolation and loneliness
It can be isolating to feel down when everyone around you seems to be living in a Hallmark movie, but remember that if you’re struggling, you’re not alone.
How to Protect Your Mental Health Over the Holidays
Follow these seven tips to help you set yourself up for the most enjoyment possible and put the joy back into your Holiday season.
7 Steps to Take Care of Your Mental Health Over the Holidays
1. Embrace the fact that not everything will be perfect
2. Maintain your normal routine as much as possible
3. Leave room in your schedule for moments of joy
4. Indulge yourself – but not too much
5. Give yourself the gift of self-care
6. Remember what really matters
7. Get professional support
1. Embrace the fact that not everything will be perfect
It can be tempting to recreate the Pinterest-perfect holiday you see online.
It’s helpful to remember that no matter how hard you try, the holidays aren’t going to be perfect.
Someone will inevitably spill a drink on a white tablecloth or knock over that all-too-breakable ornament.
2. Maintain your normal routine as much as possible
If you usually go on an evening walk or have your coffee while reading a good book in the morning, try to keep doing this throughout the holidays.
Holidays are often full of travel, special events, and occasions to celebrate. But maintaining your regular schedule as much as you can provides a much-needed sense of consistency.
3. Leave room in your schedule for moments of joy
Having an itinerary for every event you must attend during the holidays can provide a sense of control.
However, leaving space in your schedule for the unexpected can create room for more spontaneous moments of joy.
Sometimes, the most fun comes when we least expect it - and we’re better able to enjoy it when we’ve had some time to relax.
4. Indulge yourself – but not too much
The holidays are a time to eat great food and drink fun drinks.
Enjoy as many treats as you’d like over the holidays, but make sure to balance them with food that will nourish your body, too.
5. Give yourself the gift of self-care
The holiday season emphasizes giving to others, but remember to take the time to give back to yourself.
3 Simple Self-Care Tips:
- Try a relaxing activity, like yoga or meditation
- Read your favourite book or watch your favourite movie
- Take a mental health walk while listening to a song or podcast you love
6. Remember what matters
From writing a list to meditating, practising gratitude can be a great way to ground yourself in the present and take inventory of the moments that really matter.
Remembering to be thankful for what’s good in your life has many mental health benefits, including:
- Greater happiness
- Stronger relationships
- More positive emotions
If you can take a step back at the end of each day and make a mental list of five things you’re grateful for, you’re already on the right track.
7. Get professional support
If you’re looking for personalized guidance on improving your mental health, speaking to a therapist is a fantastic place to start.
Whether you’re looking to explore life’s biggest questions with an Existential Therapist or learn specific strategies to manage anxiety with a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, attending therapy can be a great way to learn more about yourself and how to achieve the life you want to have.
Learn about the types of therapy we offer by exploring our Therapies page.
Next Steps for Protecting Your Mental Health
After reading this article, you know seven ways to protect your mental health this holiday season.
Here at KMA Therapy, we understand that the pressure you put on yourself can become overwhelming. For over 14 years, we’ve helped our clients find solutions that work for them and fit into their busy lives.
Book an introductory appointment to start your therapy journey today, or contact our team to learn more.
If you’re not yet ready to book an introductory appointment, check out these resources for more information:
- For more holiday help, read: 5 Tips to De-Stress This Holiday Season
- If you’re interested in online therapy, read: How to Find an Online Therapist in Toronto
- If you’re dealing with a high amount of anxiety that doesn’t fade after the holidays, read: What’s the Difference Between Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders
