The holiday season can be both joyous and stressful. Taking care of yourself and prioritizing your mental health can make a significant difference in your well-being.
If you’re finding this time of year overwhelming and causing additional stress and anxiety, Holly, a social worker from our Mental Health team, says:
- Let go of the "shoulds" — its okay to decline an invite or skip a tradition
- Set boundaries — say "no" to activities and conversations that do not bring you joy
- Watch out for comparisons and expectations — we can easily get caught up in what others are doing. Focus on what is within your control and what is important to you
- Know your financial limits and don't overdo it. Set a budget and find ways to give your time or contribute other than gift giving.
- Decide ahead of time how long you plan to stay at an event. Knowing when you plan to call it a night can help reduce your anxiety on when the right time to leave may be.
- Connect with others — create opportunities to spend time with friends, family or colleagues in a meaningful way. Find or create spaces that are not focused on the season.
If you are feeling lonely during the holidays, acknowledge your feelings and know that it doesn't mean something is wrong with you. Try and understand where the feeling is coming from – are you feeling alone because you are isolating yourself or do you feel lonely even when you are with others?
Avoid comparing yourself to others – social media can lead to increased feelings of loneliness. You can try to find ways to connect with yourself through a new hobby and other self-care practices.
Loneliness thrives in silence and we tend to isolate when we feel lonely. Try doing the opposite and find ways to connect even if you don't feel like it, here are a few examples:
- Phone a friend
- Make plans with others
- Be of service and volunteer
- Join community seasonal offerings, look for free activities and events
- Perform an act of kindness
If your loneliness persists, reach out and seek professional help. You can also consider using the following resources if needed.
- 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 9-8-8
- Toronto Distress Centres: 416 408-4357 or 408-HELP
- 310-Cope - call or text 1-855-310-COPE (2673)
- Assaulted Women's Helpline: 416 863-0511; Toll-free: 1 866 863-0511
- Kids Help Phone: 1 800 668-6868
- A friendly voice 1-855-892-9992 - non urgent/non crisis support for individuals 55+
The holidays can be difficult but with some time spent on well-being, feelings of stress, anxiety and loneliness can be better managed so we can find enjoying the pleasures of the season a little easier.