Busy schedules, financial pressures, and endless to-dos can pile up fast during the holiday season. To help you stay mentally healthy, Joe Gieck, PhD, with Carilion Mental Health shares some simple ways to take care of yourself and stay grounded amid the chaos.
1. Practice gratitude
Gratitude is one of the most effective mood boosters. It’s easy to become consumed with the negative. Instead, bring balance to how you feel by jotting down a few things you’re thankful for each day or sending a quick message to someone you appreciate.
2. Stay connected
Lean into your social network and those closest to you. Maybe reach out to someone you’ve been meaning to call or send a quick message to reconnect—don’t wait and regret. Even short conversations can make you feel more supported and less alone.
3. Make time for what you enjoy
Protect and prioritize your “me time.” Put it on your calendar if that helps you make sure you have the time. Whether it’s baking, reading, an evening out, watching a favorite show, or just taking a quiet moment, make space for things that bring satisfaction and joy. Pursuing purposeful and enjoyable activities is a natural mood booster.
4. Get involved, give back, pay it forward
Contributing and helping others can boost your mood and sense of purpose. It also connects you to community. Volunteer at a local nonprofit, donate to a cause you care about, or just do something kind for someone. Even small, everyday gestures matter.
5. Take care of your body
Your mental health is tied to how you feel physically. Practice self-care with adequate rest, generally balanced nutrition and hydration, and enjoyable activities or exercise. Think about unhealthy habits and patterns that aren’t consistent with your goals and consider strategies to leave them behind.
6. Try something new
New things can spark joy and help provide an emotional and mental reset. So, consider shaking up your routine with a new hobby, passion, or experience. (Tip: Check out our Events Calendar. It’s full of free events like Tai Chi and yoga classes and art studio time!)
7. Find ways to manage stress
“Stressful moments and experiences happen. The trick is finding what helps you decompress and sticking with it consistently. This can help limit negative effects of excessive stress and keep it from turning into distress,” says Dr. Gieck. Try a breathing exercise, going for a walk, journaling, or creating some art (coloring counts too!). Keep it brief if you need to—a few minutes each day can really help.
8. Rest and recover
Rest isn’t lazy—it’s necessary. Give yourself permission to slow down, take breaks, and sleep in when you can. Your brain needs downtime to reset and stay healthy. Listen to what your body tells you.
9. Savor the little things
Increase your sense of satisfaction by taking a moment to soak things in: a warm cup of coffee, holiday lights, or music you love. Focused moments of mindfulness can help you reset, unwind, and just slow down.
10. Set boundaries
This can apply to work, family, and other things like finances. Understanding your limits and finding ways to express and stick to them can help reduce stress and remove pressures.
11. Be realistic with expectations
It’s easy to picture the holidays as nothing but joy and perfection—but real life isn’t always like that. Sometimes the season brings up tough feelings or memories, and family gatherings don’t always go as planned. Try to let go of the idea of “perfect” and accept things as they are. Appreciating people and moments for what they truly are can help you feel more at peace.
12. Ask for help
You’re not alone, and asking for support is a sign of strength. If you’re struggling with your mental health, reach out to your family doctor so they can help you get back to feeling your best.
