The Canadian Mental Health Association suggests that some of the best ways to deal with added stress around the holiday season are common sense strategies.
In a recent press release, Bev Gutray, CEO of CMHA's B.C. division stated, that it's easy to feel overwhelmed during the holiday season. The key is to keep it simple and remember to make your mental health a priority, she added. The following are some tips from CMHA. Plan ahead: Decorate, cook, shop, or do whatever is on your list in advance. Then you can really relax and enjoy visiting friends, relatives and co-workers.
Organize and delegate: Make a list and check it twice. Rather than one person cooking the whole family meal, invite guests to bring a dish. Kids can help with giftwrapping, decorating, baking, or addressing or decorating cards.
Beware of overindulgence: Alcohol can lift your mood but then drop you lower than before, and too many sweets will probably make you feel lethargic, tired, and guilty come Boxing Day. Eating well, exercising regularly and getting a good night's sleep can help you battle stress, winter blues, and even colds. Remember what the holiday season is about for you: Make that your priority. Develop your own meaningful family traditions that don't have to cost a lot of money. Also remember not to take things too seriously. Fun or silly things to do, games or movies that make you laugh, playing with pets, and time alone or with a partner are all good ways to reduce stress. Use this time of year to help regain perspective.
Invite others: If you have few family or friends, reach out to neighbours. Find ways to spend the holidays with other people. If you're part of a family gathering, invite someone you know is alone to your gathering.
Connect with your community: Attend diverse cultural events with family and friends. Help out at a local food bank or another community organization.
- cmha.ca
