Don’t look now; there’s Christmas stuff already out at your favorite department and grocery stores. That’s right, as the calendar turns to October, we are less than two months away from Thanksgiving, and the beginning of the long and joyous holiday season. But with all the fun and fellowship that lies ahead, this season can also create stress, anxiety, and uncertainty for many of us.
Just think about it… There are holiday parties, work events, travel, family and friends visiting, and more. Not to mention, gift giving, a surplus of sweet treats, and copious amounts of alcohol. It can be overwhelming and triggering depending on our individual life experiences. My advice is to do some inventory and prep work so you can make the most out of this special time.
Personally, I think checking in on our own mental health during this time is more important than any other time of the year.
“Taking time and checking in with yourself is vital during the holiday season,” says Alliance Healthcare Services CEO Laurie Powell. “While the season is fun for most, it can trigger feelings of loneliness and despair for others. The key is to enjoy everything in moderation; pace yourself and say no to some events if you are feeling overwhelmed.”
Now that’s good advice, if you ask me. What are your plans to stay safe, sane, and keep your wellness and stress levels in check?
Here’s a nifty little list or cheat sheet I created that helps me during this busy and all-encompassing season.
- Like Laurie stated, “no” is a complete sentence. Set your boundaries and stick to them. Try a little “JOMO” (joy of missing out). It might do you some good.
- It’s important to stop and smell the pumpkin spice. Don’t be a prisoner to your shopping list. Take a break or limit your lofty expectations of getting everything done in time.
- Be picky – don’t feel like you have to go to every work party.
- Don’t drink and drive – call a rideshare service or find a designated driver.
- Don’t “go there” if you don’t have to with family and friends.
- When the weather gets colder, it’s easier to hit the snooze button on the alarm and not hit the gym. Try working out on your lunch break or right after work.
- Like new year’s resolutions, don’t set yourself up for failure. Set reasonable goals and expectations during this festive and hectic time.
- Try finding someone in your life that can hold you accountable for your health goals. A partner in health, if you will. Someone who will dig deeper than the small talk. Someone who will ask if you are okay or need help.
- Many have lost loved ones in this season, so just because you are happy, doesn’t mean others have to be. Be self-aware and conscious of others.
- If you tend to struggle with “FOMO” (fear of missing out), avoid social media channels such as Facebook and Instagram.
This is by no means a cure-all, but hopefully these tips will help you during what is sure to be a rollicking and celebratory season. Godspeed!