December 14, 2022
Not everyone's minds are full of holiday cheer right now. Stress, anxiety, and grief may make it feel like listening to the ghosts of
Christmas past, present and future in there. It is time to pay extra attention to your mental health. Inspired by their clients of all
ages, Childrens Service Center and Robinson Counseling Center staff note that several common themes regarding mental health and the
holiday season, which include money and finances, family issues, grief and loss, and anxiety. Consider these tips to create more mindful
holiday magic:
- Make a plan for how to manage your emotions and needs with family members. Identify boundaries and specific actions you will take
such as taking a walk or identifying a specific supportive person ahead of time that you can go to.
- Identify a specific way to honor and remember loved ones not with you during this season such as candle lighting or taking a
moment for everyone to share a favorite memory.
- A therapist can work with you to identify resources in the community through agencies who provide financial assistance or gifts for
kids. Make a plan to establish traditions that are not about spending money but gathering together and connecting.
- If your life does not look or feel like you want it to be, pay attention to thoughts in your mind that start with words like
"always, never, should and can't." Such thoughts are often emotionally driven, and not accurate or based on fact. These words
can steal our joy like a Grinch at Christmas and often define our identities and experiences extremely narrowly. No matter how
difficult your experience may be, consider that you can choose how you want to show up for it. Choose what you bring to the table:
strength, creativity, and self-compassion may better serve and nourish you.
- If you have a teen with mental health struggles, be available to simply just listen to them. Validate them. Reflect back what you
hear. Let them know that you love and believe in them. They just might magically smile a little!
- Establish daily routines that support your mental health. What are things you can do every day that anchor and ground you? Examples
might be a relaxing (or energizing) shower, participating in or watching sports, cooking, writing, taking a few deep breaths, or texting
a specific person - it’s totally up to you.
- Nutrition matters. Sorry, but it does. Consider that food has three purposes. First, nutrition for your body and mind. By supporting a
healthy gut, you also support a healthy brain. Second, food brings enjoyment! Some food exists simply to taste good and that’s ok!
Third, food also can establish a connection and communion with one another. That's why we gather and celebrate with it.
Remember that you are not alone if you are struggling during the holidays. Take care and reach out if you need help. For information and
appointments, call 570-825-6425 and visit cscwv.org.