Did you know that 64% of people with mental illness report that the holidays make their conditions worse? Families and individuals that are coping with mental health challenges can feel lonely, stressed, depressed or filled with anxiety during the holiday season. Do you fall into this percentage? We’ve put together a guide to help lower stress and anxiety and maintain good mental health during this holiday season.

ACCEPT YOUR NEEDS

Be kind to your mind! Put yourself first. Recognize the things that are making you stressed or full of anxiety. Is it shopping for gifts? Hosting your Zoom family dinner? Once you recognize these triggers, you will be able to take the steps to avoid the stress and anxiety.

WRITE A GRATITUDE LIST

Gratitude has been proven to improve mental health. 2020 has been an especially challenging year for everyone. The end of the year is getting closer, it’s a great time to reflect back on what you are grateful for and thank those who have supported you along the way.

MANAGE YOUR TIME

Prioritize your time and activities to help you use your time better. You can start by making a day-to-day schedule to help ensure you won’t feel overwhelmed with too much. It is okay to say no to plans that don’t make you feel good, or don’t fit into your schedule.

PRACTICE RELAXATION

Deep Breathing, meditation and progressive muscle relaxation are great ways to calm yourself. Take a break to refocus.

EAT WELL

Having to stay home throughout the holidays can bring on food binges. Try to maintain a healthy diet through this time. Eating unprocessed foods like whole grains, vegetables, and fresh fruit is the foundation for a healthy body and mind.

EXERCISE DAILY

Set a time where you can walk outside, bike or schedule a virtual dance class. Whatever it is you plan for yourself, make sure it’s something fun! Daily exercise produces stress relieving hormones in your body and improves your overall health.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteering can provide comfort. Being able to help others, can help you feel less isolated and connected to your community.

FIND SUPPORT

Talking about it can help, whether it’s with friends, family, a counselor or a support group. Don’t be afraid to reach out.

If you or someone you love is having a hard time with mental illness during the holidays, we have Behavioral Health Counselors here to help. Call or text us at 509-488-5256 to speak with one of them today.