By Ashley Drake (Accredited Menta Health Social Worker)

The holiday season can be a time of joy for many, but it can also bring added pressure and emotional challenges. With expectations around celebrations, socialising, and end-of-year tasks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So, taking care of yourself is key. Here are some tips to help you prioritise your mental health during the holiday season.

Set Boundaries

It’s OK to say no or to not join in festivities if you’re not feeling up to it. Communicating with others about your needs, when you can, may help others be mindful of your limits.

Match Energy to Tasks

There’s no need to do things at your usual energy or pace, especially if you have had a difficult year. Give yourself permission to chip away at tasks slowly, or to delay jobs until you’re feeling prepared to tackle them.

Schedule Pleasurable Activities

If it’s possible, find small moments for things you enjoy. It might not always feel easy, but scheduling in moments of comfort can help you feel more grounded.

Connect With Others

Even if you're not feeling festive, it is still possible to socialise without focus on the holiday season. Reaching out to others who may be feeling the same can foster meaningful connections and help reduce feelings of isolation.

Maintain Routine

Maintaining a routine as close to your usual one as possible can help reduce any unease from the festivities around you. This may also make it easier to adjust when things return to normal in the New Year.

Allow Yourself To Feel

It’s OK if you’re not feeling OK during the Christmas and New Year period. You don’t need to justify your emotions to anyone including yourself. Whatever you’re feeling is valid. It can be helpful to sit with those emotions and, if you can, use tools like journaling to process your experience.

Acknowledge Grief

The holidays can bring up feelings of grief, especially if it’s your first Christmas without a loved one. Allow yourself to experience these feelings. Consider honouring their memory by reminiscing on happy times, creating a ritual that reflects your connection with your loved one, or other small ways to commemorate their memory.

Plan Ahead

Plan for practical needs, such as stocking up on essentials before businesses get busy or close for the holidays. You might also find it helpful to have something to look forward to in the New Year.

Use Your Regular Strategies

The holidays can be stressful for many reasons. It’s important to use whatever coping strategies work for you, such as deep breathing, journaling, or reaching out for support when needed. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate these stresses.

Taking care of yourself during the holiday season is important, and it's okay to adjust expectations so that you can prioritise your well-being.