Maintain Your Mental Health Through the Holidays
By Brandi Goodman
The holiday season isn't a joyous time for all. Some people have severe mental health struggles for one reason or another. Whether it's your toxic family members causing you stress, your ever-growing to-do list filling your mind at all times, or money troubles causing you worry, you need to find ways to enhance your mental health. It's possible to do, as long as you keep some tips in mind.
Learn to Say No
Saying no isn't a bad thing. Actually, it's extremely beneficial in many circumstances. You don't have to agree to go to every party and holiday event if you know your time doesn't allow it. Don't add extra stress to your plate by saying yes to things you would rather not participate in. Tell others you simply have to decline the invitation because you have too much going on at the moment.
Fit in Exercise
Exercise releases endorphins. It can help you feel good and ease the stress you're feeling. Yet, so many people completely forgo their exercise routine during the holiday season. With so much else to accomplish, it doesn't seem important. Make the time! You need to fit in exercise and get your mood boosted if you have any hope of making it through the season. Turn on your favorite Christmas songs and dance around your living room.
Make Time for Yourself
Aside from exercise time, you should also find time for yourself to do things you enjoy. Drive around looking at Christmas lights. Sit and read a book. Watch a holiday movie. Draw. Write. Knit. Do whatever it is you enjoy and take at least a few minutes each day to yourself to unwind.
Stick to a Budget
If money worries have you down during the holidays, it's wise to budget. Don't ever think you have to go all out on gifts and spend your entire paycheck to make Christmas happen. Christmas isn't about gifts. It's about the joy of the season and spending precious moments with friends and family. Stick to a budget and only buy what you can -- or make things instead. You can even find some great options at local thrift shops or dollar stores. Candles, snacks, socks, keychains, tote bags, mugs, and more make up some simple solutions that won't cost you much.
Don't let your mental health suffer throughout the holiday season. Instead, do what you can to bring some normalcy to your life and keep your mind in stable condition. Try one or a few of these tips and find what works best for you.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Indianapolis, Ind.