The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness for many, but it can also bring stress, anxiety and burnout. Shopping lists, family gatherings, travel and end of year work obligations can make it easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help you navigate the festive season while protecting your mental wellbeing.
Recognise holiday stress triggers
The first step to managing holiday stress is understanding what causes it. Some common triggers include:
- Financial strain
- Time pressure
- Family dynamics
- Perfectionism in wanting everything to be just right.
Plan ahead
A bit of planning can significantly alleviate stress:
- Set a budget
- Prioritise tasks
- Schedule downtime – block off time for rest and relaxation amid the busyness. Self-care isn’t indulgent, it’s necessary for your mental health.
Take care of your physical health
Keeping healthy habits can enhance how you feel both physically and emotionally:
- Eat mindfully – while it’s fine to enjoy festive treats, try to maintain a balanced diet. Overindulging in sugar or alcohol can negatively affect your mood and energy levels. Ensure you eat regularly, including breakfast, and incorporate fruit, vegetables and fibre into your meals.
- Stay active – regular activity releases endorphins that boost mood and reduce stress.
- Get enough sleep – aim for 7-9 hours each night to feel more energized and resilient.
Use stress relief techniques
- Deep breathing exercises
- Mindfulness practices, meditation, or yoga
- Engage in hobbies that bring you joy.
Say no without guilt
One of the most important things you can do for your mental health is setting boundaries. If certain gatherings or obligations feel overwhelming, it’s okay to say no. Apply this to your work life as well, managing your workload and avoiding burnout.
Seek connection
While the holidays are often filled with social events, not everyone shares the same experience. Loneliness is a common issue, particularly for those who are grieving, living far from loved ones or facing difficult life changes. If you’re feeling isolated, consider reaching out to friends, joining a community event or volunteering.
Be mindful of medication management
With the hustle and bustle of the season, it’s easy to forget about regular medication schedules. Ensure you have enough supply of your prescription medications before pharmacies close for the holidays.
Embrace the spirit of gratitude
Finally, take a moment to reflect on the positive aspects of your life. Practicing gratitude has been shown to improve mental health and overall wellbeing, making challenges feel more manageable.
Wishing you a happy festive season.