Mental and Physical Wellness During the Holidays

The winter holiday season can be a joyful time, but they can also bring added stress to adults and young people alike. 

For young people, the changes in routine, new people, and different foods can be stressful. For adults, there are financial worries, family conflicts, work and life burnout, dealing with crowded stores and shortages, and preconceived ideas of what the holidays should be like.

Find additional mental health resources. 

SDCOE’s mental health and wellness team gathered tips for a healthy holiday season. 

Keep Healthy Habits

Daily walks and exercise, good sleep, and staying hydrated can help stabilize your mood and improve long-term 
mental well-being.

Make Time for Yourself

Spending time with family and friends can be overwhelming. If you need a moment for yourself, try stepping away to a quiet room or run errands.

Pay Attention to Your Feelings

Remember that it's okay to feel unhappy during the holidays. Recognizing your feelings is the first step to addressing and nurturing them.

Manage Expectations

Keep in mind the role you play in holiday gatherings. Hosts have different roles and responsibilities than guests.

Ask for Help

If you are feeling especially sad, stressed, or depressed, ask for help. Talk to a mental health professional or a primary care physician for guidance and support.

Emphasize the Good and Practice Gratitude

Expressing positive emotions increases your happiness. Engage in activities that promote happiness, such as gratitude journaling, sharing positive stories and thoughts, or writing thank-you notes to people you care about. Start your day listing a few things for which you are grateful and prioritize acts of kindness. Consider reaching out to a family member or friend and share a message of gratitude. 

Focus on What You Can Control

One of the worst kinds of stress is when you don’t feel in control. To avoid this, plan ahead and be realistic with what is in your sphere of control. 

Don’t Lose Sleep

Sleep is essential for every process in the body. It affects our physical and mental functioning, our ability to fight disease and develop immunity, and our metabolism. A lack of sleep increases our risk for chronic disease. When the holiday season is filled with hectic activity, prioritize a good night’s sleep!

Engage in Daily Mindfulness

Some ways to include mindfulness are:

• Start the day with a five-minute meditation.
• Wake up a few minutes early to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa, tea, or coffee in silence.
• Start or end your day with a journal entry.
• Take a few moments to pause and breathe.
• Engage in a nature walk and look for something that inspires awe.

Find Time for Fun

Visit a mall or community area to take in the sights and people watch. Consider taking a walk or drive to view decorations, lights, or other seasonal décor. 

Check In On Others

Support others during this time of year as grief and loss can be amplified. Check-in on loved ones who may be alone or struggling. Helping a friend or neighbor not only gives others joy but can also improve your happiness and
well-being.