The holidays are time to make new memories with loved ones. However, it can also be a time filled with packed schedules and high expectations. Rather than being hard on yourself if you are feeling overwhelmed, emotional, or stressed, take a moment to determine what healthy, holiday stress tips might make you feel at ease and ready to continue celebrating. Below are some simple tips to help improve your mental health this holiday season.

Embrace your emotions.

If you’ve recently experienced the loss of a loved one or cannot be with your loved ones during this special time of year, you should know it’s normal to feel sadness and grief. You can’t force yourself to be joyful just because it’s “that” time of the year; it’s okay to cry and express your feelings. Feeling your feelings rather than stuffing them down can help you release any pent-up emotions that may be weighing heavy on your heart.

Connect.

The holiday can often sharpen our feelings of loneliness or isolation. Seek out community or look for opportunities to volunteer as giving back can help lift spirits and help connect with others. United Way of Central Florida is a great place to check for volunteer opportunities or programs to help you connect.

Be realistic.

Perfection can cause unnecessary stress and tension as can trying to replicate holidays of the past. If your family dynamics have shifted how you celebrate, find new and meaningful ways to connect with your loved ones.

Be accepting.

Try to avoid topics known to cause distress or division such as politics or religion. Remember it’s okay to embrace family and friends without embracing their views. Try to put aside family riffs and focus on the positive characteristics family members have to offer.

Budget.

Prepare before gift and food shopping so you don’t spend more than you can afford. Remember you cannot buy happiness so try to focus on making memories and enjoying the company of your friends and family. Some tips to help with budgeting are to donate to a charity in honor of someone, exchange homemade gifts, or draw names so you’re only purchasing a gift for one person instead of everyone.

Prepare.

If your calendar is quickly filling up with holiday socials and end of year projects, try to set aside specific days for shopping and baking. Resentment and anxiety can set in when you say “yes” when you should have said “no.” Additionally, setting aside time on your calendar for self-care is important for your mental well-being.

Me time.

Even just 15 minutes of alone time without any distractions (including your mobile phone), may leave you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle your next holiday to-do list. Schedule in a bubble bath or a relaxing cup of tea. Your body requires rest and relaxation just as much as exercise and proper nutrition. It’s perfectly acceptable to take some time for yourself to recharge before continuing the holiday celebrations.

Stick to healthy habits.

A jam-packed schedule and tons of tasty holiday treats can derail your healthy habits. Be mindful not to overbook yourself, maintain your exercise routine or incorporate a relaxing walk into your day, try having a healthy snack before you head to holiday gatherings, so you don’t overindulge, and get enough sleep.

Ask for help.

Whether asking for help to wash all the dishes after a holiday baking session or calling Peace River Center’s Mobile Crisis Response Team to talk through challenging holiday blues, it’s okay to ask for help. PRC’s Crisis Hotline is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, 863.519.3744. You can also chat with our crisis counselors on a computer browser or by sending a text to 863.204.3443.

Adapted from Mayo Clinic.