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Managing Mental Health Over the Holidays

As the holidays get closer and weather gets colder, it can be a challenge to maintain good mental health. For many people, the holiday season can bring up past traumatic feelings, uncomfortable situations, family issues, etc. Emphasizing your boundaries from the beginning can be beneficial in the long run in helping prevent unwanted situations, but in order to do that you have to understand your boundaries yourself. You may feel uncomfortable telling your family you need time to yourself, but no need to let that stop you from taking time to clear your head.

Five months ago I made the decision to get sober. In my recent sobriety, many issues surrounding the holidays have come up for me. The holidays for a lot of people are about drinking and having fun with family and friends. Being only 24, it is hard to accept the fact that this is my new reality and the holidays will be different this year, but I understand the importance of boundaries moving into the holidays. Taking it day by day sometimes is the only option, and when that becomes too much, hour by hour, moment by moment. Things will be okay if you give them time to be. In saying that, the journey does not always feel good but the outcome is always worth it.

One major thing I have learned over the past 6 months of my journey is that the people who love you most truly only want one thing: for you to be happy. It can be really easy to fall into old habits to find comfort, but from experience, talking about what is bothering you with someone you love can relieve so much stress. If you have a support system, embrace them during these moments. Not only is it important to appreciate those who love you, but having them to lean on when you become overwhelmed can save you during stressful times.

Here are some things you can do this holiday season to manage your mental health.

  • Think of conversation topics ahead of time to prevent anxiety in social situations

  • Go outside as often as you can to get sunlight and maintain healthy vitamin D levels

  • Set aside time for yourself

  • Find fun activities to do with your loved ones, like decorating ornaments!

  • Talk to your support system

  • Eat mindfully to avoid negative physical feelings that can poorly affect your mental health



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