Not so happy holidays? Some tips for getting through

It’s not the most wonderful time of the year for everyone.

The holidays can be a joy-filled season but they can also be stressful and especially challenging for those affected by mental illness.

For many people, the holiday season can be a lonely or stressful time, filled with anxiety and/or depression.

The Vilas County Public Health Department wants to remind you to be kind to yourself and discover healthy ways to manage your mental health this holiday season.

According to a recent study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64 percent of people who struggle with mental health report their conditions worsen during the holiday season.

This can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety and substance misuse. However, there are many ways in which you can prepare and hopefully lessen some of the stress of the holidays:

Manage your time and don’t try to do too much 

Prioritizing your time and activities can help you use your time well. 

Making a day-to-day schedule helps ensure you don’t feel overwhelmed by everyday tasks or deadlines. It’s OK to say no to plans that don’t fit into your schedule or make you feel good.

Set aside time for yourself and prioritize self-care

Schedule time for activities that make you feel good. It might be reading a book, going to the movies, getting a massage, listening to music you love, or taking your dog for a walk. It’s OK to prioritize alone time you need to recharge.

Know your needs.

Be kind to yourself by putting your own mental and physical well-being first. Learn or recognize what your triggers are to help you prepare for stressful situations; once you know this, you can take steps to avoid or cope with stress.

Eat well.

With dinners, parties and cookie trays at every turn, our eating habits are challenged during the holidays. Try to maintain a healthy diet that includes whole grains, vegetables, and fruit. Eating well can help stabilize your mood.

Exercise 

Daily exercise naturally produces stress-relieving hormones in your body and improves your overall physical health.

Avoid alcohol and drugs

They don’t actually reduce stress: in fact, they often worsen it. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, educate yourself and learn where you can get help. 

Volunteer

The act of volunteering can provide a great source of comfort.

By helping people who are not as fortunate, you can also feel less lonely or isolated and more connected to your community.

Find support

Whether it’s with friends, family, a counselor, or support group, talking about things can help. Consider attending a free, local support group in your area.

If you or someone you love is experiencing a crisis or declining mental health this holiday season, you can call, text or chat at 988 the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org/.

For more local support, and other resources, visit, www.vilascountywi.gov/departments/services/public_health_department/mental_health_and_substance_misuse.php, and naminorthernlakes.org/resources-support/.