Let's Talk About Mental Health Over The Festive Season

This holiday season, let's come together to talk about how the holidays can affect our mental health and wellbeing. Join us in an open, supportive conversation to discuss the positive and negative impacts that come with the holidays. We'll share helpful tips and strategies to help us cope with the pressures of the season and discuss how to stay healthy and balanced during this time. Let's use this time to connect, learn, and share with one another.

What we covered

The holiday season is upon us and with it comes a range of emotions and experiences. From joy and excitement to loneliness and stress, the festive season can have both positive and negative impacts on our mental health and wellbeing. This year, let’s come together to discuss how to stay healthy and balanced during this special time by having an open, supportive conversation about mental health and wellbeing.

We know that the holidays can be a difficult time for many people. There may be pressure to spend time with family and friends, to buy gifts, to participate in traditions, and to have the “perfect” holiday season. It can be difficult to cope with these expectations, especially if you are already feeling overwhelmed.

It’s important to remember that it is okay to not be okay during the holidays. It’s okay to take a break from the hustle and bustle and to take some time for yourself. Here are some tips and strategies to help you stay healthy and balanced during the festive season:

Take Time for Self-Care

Practicing self-care is essential for your mental wellbeing. This can be something as simple as taking a few minutes to relax and breathe deeply, or something more involved like taking a hot bath or going for a walk. Taking time for yourself can help to reduce stress and increase your overall wellbeing.

Set Realistic Expectations

It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself and others. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself or others to have the “perfect” holiday season. It’s okay to say no to things that don’t work for you, and to set boundaries that are in line with your values and needs.

Connect With Others

The holidays can be a lonely time for many people. Reach out to friends and family and let them know how you’re feeling. Remember that you don’t have to do it all alone – it’s okay to ask for help.

Get Moving

Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, boost your mood, and stay healthy. Take a break from the hustle and bustle to go for a walk, do some yoga, or take a dance class.

Create a Schedule

Creating a schedule can help you to stay organized and on top of your to-do list. Having structure can also help to reduce stress and keep you on track.

Have Fun

Don’t forget to have fun! Take some time to do something that you enjoy, like baking cookies, watching movies, or reading a book.

Seek Professional Help

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope, it’s important to seek help from a professional. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a mental health provider or a trusted friend or family member.

The festive season can be a stressful and overwhelming time for many of us. But it can also be a time for connection and joy. This year, let’s come together to talk about how the holidays can affect our mental health and wellbeing. Let’s share helpful tips and strategies to help us cope with the pressures of the season and to stay healthy and balanced this holiday season.