One’s mental health symptoms can affect a person at different times throughout the year, especially during the winter holidays. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, 64 percent of people report their mental health symptoms being worse throughout the holiday season. The Behavioral Health team at Catholic Charities of Buffalo is offering five tips to help you give your mental health a boost.
“Despite being surrounded by cheerful lights and decorations, exchanging gifts, and a warm message of togetherness, this can be the most difficult time of the year for many who may feel more depressed, isolated, or anxious than usual,” said Allie Medina, LMHC, clinic supervisor for Catholic Charities. “Please know that you are not alone; feeling sad and alone while others seem so full of joy is quite common. Fortunately, there are ways to focus on our mental health and keep us all moving in a positive direction throughout the winter months.”
Here are some tips from Catholic Charities’ Behavioral Health team to make the holidays a little happier:
- Mindfulness. Setting aside time to express and feel gratitude for things in your life can add positivity to your day. Whether this be through journaling or meditation, creating designated space to feel grateful despite experiencing hardships can reframe negative thoughts to be more positive. If meditating or journaling seems too overwhelming, start small by listing three things you’re thankful for.
- Set boundaries. It becomes more difficult to say no during a time when everyone wants to get together, but don’t feel guilty limiting the time you are giving to others. Spending time with ourselves to relax and enjoy is OK too. Listen to your social battery and make decisions based on what feels right to you.
- Keep up a healthy routine. It’s easy to let the holidays throw off our typical schedule and day-to-day routines. That’s why it’s important to try and remain consistent. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and getting in some movement throughout your day to ensure you are keeping your mental and physical health on track.
- Soak in the sun. It is easy to feel down when the winter months limit the amount of sunlight we receive. Get out in the sun for a few minutes each day – even when it is chilly – to take a walk, drink your morning cup of coffee, or simply stand and take a few deep breaths. You can also use bright lights throughout the day to mimic sunshine.
- Limit alcohol. It is easy to fall into using alcohol for comfort during the holiday season. It may sound like an appealing way to escape the feelings of depression or anxiety, but it can typically make symptoms worse. Turn to a healthier habit to give you the same warm feeling such as drinking hot cocoa or tea with a friend, sharing a sweet treat with a loved one, or making a mocktail with seltzer water or ginger ale and juice.
Feeling like you or a loved one would benefit by talking to someone? Connect with Catholic Charities Behavioral Health Team by calling 1-877-448-4466.