Mental Health Toolkit - Holiday Edition
Holiday-related stress. It is something we are no stranger to. Holiday-related stress amidst a global pandemic? This is a whole different ballgame.
Many individuals and families are facing the upcoming weeks with angst. Others with sorrow as they approach this season without their loved one. Some are working overtime or picking up shifts to fill in the gaps of staffing shortages. This list could go on for hours; the ways in which this particular holiday will be uniquely difficult. Having some solid tools to help you manage the varying emotions and stress levels is key.
Pencil in time for you.
This can be as simple as taking the 10-15 minute break you normally power through at work. Productivity has its time and place, but taking these mini breaks is actually one way to improve your work performance while also keeping stress at bay. Or maybe you wake up 10 minutes before everyone else in your household so you have some “me time” before the morning rush. Or schedule an appointment with yourself, much like you would for a lunch date with a friend. Honor that time in the same way by not scheduling anything in that time-slot. Sometimes saying no to something means you can say yes to you.
Call or visit with a friend and actually TALK to them.
Social media has its perks but it often provides a false sense of community. It does all the work for us in terms of keeping us up to date with people’s lives, but in exchange for being empty of actual human interaction and connection. I promise, when you create time for this, you will notice a significant difference in your mood and overall wellness. Social connection is something that we often don’t know we need until we get it.
Examine where you might need to set boundaries with people or places that drain your mental-emotional battery, or even harm or offend you.
Do not be afraid to set limits in this way because only you can be responsible for your wellbeing. This is something that no one else can do for you. And do not let family members tell you they are exempt from respecting your boundaries. Family is important, but even family members need to understand and allow the concept of individuality within their family unit. Having healthy boundaries is like knowing where one individual person starts and the other begins.
Have an exit plan for social or familial gatherings.
Certain topics of conversation - especially this year - can cause some tension or discomfort. Make a note to yourself of 2-3 options you have for excusing yourself from the conversation if it takes a turn. Maybe you go to the bathroom, head to the kitchen for a glass of water, or take the dog for a walk.
Let go of judgment.
This goes for judgment toward yourself and toward others. Notice how I’m not saying “stay positive” or “practice gratitude.” These sentiments have their place, but what can be more transformative is the practice of releasing judgment. Ask yourself, “how can I be a little less negative or harsh in the way I speak to myself or treat others?” Sometimes turning down the volume on the judgmental or negative attitudes can naturally create space for more desirable feelings and attitudes. Another way to look at it is, “how can I see this situation through a more neutral lense; not good or bad, just neutral.”
