Tis the Season: Mental Health Over the Holidays
The holiday season is portrayed as a happy time for all. However, it is common for individuals to struggle during this time. While the holidays can bring joy, love, happiness, and connection, it can also bring the opposite.
Individuals with complicated family dynamics may feel the impact more intensely this time of year. A lack of family relationship(s) (due to trauma, toxic environments or relationships, lack of communication, etc.) may contribute to feelings of shame, loneliness, jealousy or emptiness, as a lack of connection to others can be a heavy weight to carry.
Grief and loss can also play into intensified feelings around the holidays, as individuals we love and care about are no longer with us for the holiday season. This can contribute to painful memories, feelings of emptiness, resistance to celebrating, and/or a deep sadness around old traditions.
Although individuals struggle with mental health all year around, the holidays can be more difficult to some due to SAD (seasonal affect disorder), depression, anxiety, social anxiety, family dynamics, grief and loss, and many more contributing factors. If you are struggling to get through the holiday season here are some tips that may help ease your journey:
Practice Self Compassion: it’s okay to not be okay. Make room for compassion and allow yourself to feel things authentically. Take the pressure and expectations off yourself that this “has” to be a joyful time of year.
Know your Boundaries: it’s okay to set time limits or say no to social gatherings that may be difficult or triggering for you.
Role Play Scenarios: if you are planning to attend a social gathering and feel anxious about the dynamic or potential interaction, consider how you want to respond or react to that person or situation.
Create a Safe Place: creating a calm, safe place for you to remove all pressures and expectations and just be.
Lean on Social Supports: rely on your support networks to be there when you need it. Try to remember, you are not alone.
If you are struggle to get through the holidays, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted professional for extra support. Be kind to yourself and have a safe holiday season.