Caring for your Wellbeing

The holiday season is often a time of joy, celebration and togetherness, but for some it’s a difficult time. Many people experience financial stress, loneliness, grief and reminders of loss, strained relationships and a change in the regular routine. These often make people feel anxious, overwhelmed, guilty, stressed and sad.

There are many ways that you can be proactive in taking care of your mental wellbeing and reducing your stress this holiday season – and if you know of someone doing it tough, make sure you check in with them.

9 Tips to Take Care of Your Wellbeing this Holiday Season

Below are some tips from the Black Dog Institute to make sure you stay on top of your mental health and stress.

1. Work out your priorities and keep a list

Prioritise your ‘must-do’ tasks and know what your ‘would like to do’ tasks are. Tick them off as you go.

2. Reflect on what you have done well this year

Look back on the year and look at what you have done well. Take time to pause and reflect on what it took for you to achieve this.

3. Think before you commit yourself to other people’s expectations

This time of year we tend to squeeze everything into our diaries and over commit. Don’t be afraid to say no to requests that are unreasonable or more than you can handle.

4. Focus on what you enjoy

It’s important to spend time with family and loved ones this time of year, but don’t forget to also spend the time doing the things you enjoy – that could be reading, swimming, meditation, dance, or something else!

5. Connect with others

For some of us, this time of year can be isolating – particularly when we are separated from family and friends. Make sure you pick up the phone, set up a video call, or attend a local community event if you are in this situation. And check in with others who may be doing it tough this holiday season.

6. Take your time

This is a busy time of year. Make sure you slow down, take your time and don’t let people rush you. If you are feeling rushed, don’t be afraid to ask people to wait until you have finished what you are doing. Make sure you plan ahead to leave yourself plenty of time.

7. Identify your stressful situations

Make a list of things that leave you emotionally drained and ways that you manage and reduce the stress, such as deep breathing.

8. Watch your alcohol intake

It is very easy to get caught up in the festive activities and indulge a little too much. Make sure that you are mindful of your alcohol intake and are not going overboard.

9. Be in the moment and have fun!

This time of year is filled with many celebrations, social events, and festivities. Make sure you take the time to enjoy what is happening and not spend too much time worrying about the past or future.

Take care of yourself and others this holiday season.

Source: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/news/10-tips-to-reduce-stress-this-holiday-season-after-a-difficult-year/