Prioritising mental health during the holidays
The holiday season is often seen as a time of joy and celebration, but for many, it can also bring stress, pressure, and anxiety. At Not Just Girls, we understand the importance of prioritising mental health, especially during this time of year. With the demands of family gatherings, work commitments, and societal expectations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This article shares practical tips for managing mental health during the holidays, ensuring that individuals give themselves the care and attention they deserve.
The Impact of the Holiday Season on Mental Health
For many, the holidays can trigger a variety of emotions. While they’re a time of connection and celebration, they can also bring feelings of loneliness, financial strain, and high expectations. The end-of-year rush can make it hard to balance everything, leaving little time for self-care or rest.
During this time, it’s easy to neglect one’s own mental health, often in favour of meeting others’ needs. This can lead to burnout, stress, and even depression. Understanding the potential impact of the season on mental health is the first step in ensuring individuals take the necessary steps to protect their wellbeing.
Setting Realistic Expectations
One of the most important ways to protect mental health during the holidays is by setting realistic expectations. There’s often pressure to make everything perfect—whether it’s cooking the ideal Christmas dinner, buying the best gifts, or hosting the most memorable celebrations. However, it’s essential to recognise that it doesn’t all need to be perfect, and not everything needs to be done.
At Not Just Girls, we encourage individuals to embrace imperfection and allow themselves to step back when needed. Simplifying holiday plans can alleviate unnecessary stress and help people enjoy the season without feeling overburdened.
Creating Boundaries
The holiday season often involves spending a lot of time with family and friends, but this can sometimes be draining, especially if relationships are strained or if there are constant demands. Setting clear boundaries is key to maintaining mental health. It’s okay to say no to social engagements that feel overwhelming or to take time for oneself when necessary.
By establishing boundaries, individuals create the space needed to recharge and focus on what truly matters. This can help them feel more in control and less anxious about external pressures.
Practising Mindfulness and Self-Care
During the busy holiday season, it’s easy to forget the importance of self-care. Taking time for oneself—whether it’s through meditation, exercise, or simply unwinding with a good book—can help keep stress levels in check.
Mindfulness is another powerful tool for managing mental health during the holidays. Taking a few moments each day to pause, breathe, and focus on the present can help calm the mind and reduce feelings of overwhelm. At Not Just Girls, we encourage young women to embrace these practices to create balance in their lives, particularly during times of heightened stress.
Seeking Support
If individuals are feeling overwhelmed, they should not hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional, seeking help can make a significant difference. There’s no shame in asking for support during the holidays, and it’s important to remember that no one has to go through it alone.
Having someone to talk to can offer a fresh perspective, validate feelings, and provide practical solutions to cope with stress. If unsure where to start, organisations like Mind and Samaritans offer resources to guide individuals through difficult times.
Reflecting on the Year
The holiday season is also an ideal time to reflect on the year gone by. It’s a moment to acknowledge achievements, no matter how big or small, and recognise the progress made in various areas of life.
Taking time for self-reflection can help individuals gain perspective and remind them of the things that matter most. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, but it’s equally important to pause and appreciate how far one has come.
Conclusion
Prioritising mental health during the holidays is essential for both well-being and the ability to truly enjoy the season. By setting realistic expectations, creating boundaries, practising mindfulness, seeking support, and reflecting on the year, individuals can ensure they approach the holidays with a sense of balance and peace.
At Not Just Girls, we advocate for the importance of self-care and mental health, not just during the holiday season, but throughout the year. Taking care of oneself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Everyone deserves to enjoy the holidays with their mental health intact, and the tools and strategies shared here can help make that possible.