Through the challenging times we’re going through, it’s important to check-in with yourself & know you’re going to get through holiday stress

When it comes to the holidays, we all know it can be a trying time. From compiling lists of what to get for all of our loved ones and friends, pre-holiday jitters we all can’t help but have, and families coming together to celebrate, it can be physically and mentally draining. There’s nothing wrong with feeling this way though, as it’s natural, especially when we’re immersed in work and our everyday life.

Things can sometimes feel overwhelming once we reach this time, like we’re finally reaching the peak of this rollercoaster year, about to plunge down the fateful drop. It can feel exhilarating, but can also make your heart skip a beat or two. Once we’re grown and the holidays come a bit different, it’s no surprise that we have additional stresses added on top of piles we already have. For some, this time of year can bring about a fair share of anxiousness, but it’s so important to be in touch with oneself to make sure we can all get through this, because we can!

Since this holiday season looks a bit different, it feels like another brick has been added to the foundation of a trying last two months of the year. Families aren’t getting together, we’re still in a whirlwind of the craziness we call 2020; it seems that it couldn’t get worse. More than ever, mental health checks are crucial, as if anything, it is a sign of strength and courage of wanting to carry on and get through this time.

More than ever, finding a way to help you feel balanced can definitely help your mental health and general well being. The most important thing to do would be to make sure your body is getting the needed rest it deserves. Sleeping 7-8 hours a night has beneficial effects to our bodies, as it can help your productivity and aid with feeling more well rested. This can make the overwhelming times feel possibly a bit easier on your soul. Even a guided meditation has the potential to level yourself, as being in touch with yourself can relieve many stresses and bring a great amount of self awareness. This can bring a new perspective to coping, especially on a day where it just feels like the world is weighing you down.

Another great way to lift yourself up could even be picking up a new hobby! Drawing, painting, reading, journaling, and countless more are amazing ways to take time for yourself and put your mind elsewhere, because sometimes it’s just a necessity. Occasionally when our minds wander and seem to be spiraling from thought to thought, just taking time to attempt to shut it off can help you relax and take a mental breather. Whatever that activity for you can be, now is the time to hone in on it and give yourself that time to mentally decompress, as this is when we need it the most.

Whatever your situation might be for the holidays, just know we are here for you, as we understand it can be a tough time to go through. It’s always acceptable to prioritize yourself, even when it seems like that’s not an option. You are important and valid, and deserve to get through this and finish the year strong. Remember though that there are always resources to help if you ever need it:

• SAMHSA’s Free 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

• NAMI HelpLine (Monday-Friday, 10 am–6 pm, ET.): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or info@nami.org

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255