Thriving Through the Holidays: Practical Tips for Your Mental Health
Feeling overwhelmed by the holidays? Learn practical tips for setting boundaries, managing stress, and protecting your mental health this season.
In this article
Thriving through the holidays means protecting your mental health by setting boundaries, managing expectations, and prioritizing self-care — not just surviving family gatherings or social obligations. If the now upon us holiday season doesn’t have you jumping for joy … you’re not alone. Here are some tips & tricks to manage the holidays on your terms. Take some of that power back and power through with self love and compassion.
Setting Boundaries During the Holidays
- Don’t go into debt trying to show people how much you love them.
- Don’t go visit your family if it compromises your mental health.
- You don’t have to attend any events that might trigger you.
- Just because you’ve always done it that way (tradition) doesn’t mean you have to do it that way (new traditions).
- It’s ok to not be ok.
- It’s ok to feel sad & not feel like celebrating.
- It’s ok to feel like celebrating!
- You get to decide what you’re celebrating & how you want to do it.
- It’s ok to say no.
- It’s ok to disappoint others (this one is for the people pleasers 🙋♀️).
- Pick who you actually want to spend time with.
- Utilize those boundary skills or start to develop boundaries.
- Anyone or anything that eats at your self esteem is not worthy of your time or energy.
- Up your self care! Snuggle in with a good book … if that’s what you’re into.
If you’re struggling with family communication during the holidays, our article on Communication Problems in Families offers additional strategies.
10 Things You Can Control
1️⃣ Your attitude
2️⃣ Your thoughts
3️⃣ Your daily habits
4️⃣ How you treat others
5️⃣ How you spend or invest your money
6️⃣ Whether or not you try again after a setback
7️⃣ The people you surround yourself with
8️⃣ Whether you practice gratitude
9️⃣ Your physical wellness
🔟 Whether or not you ask for help
When to Seek Professional Support
If the holiday season consistently feels overwhelming, speaking with a regulated health professional can help. In Ontario, Registered Psychotherapists (RPs), Registered Social Workers (RSWs), and Clinical Psychologists (C.Psych) are qualified to provide mental health support.
You’ve got this.❤️
Wishing you health, happiness & financial freedom,
