LOUISE HARDER | BOARD MEMBER AND STRATEGIST
The Holiday season can be filled with shopping, family traditions, and various Holiday events and parties. It can also be a time of high stress and trigger feelings of anxiety and/or depression. If you struggle more during the Holiday season, you are not alone. According to a survey by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of people with mental illness report holidays make their conditions worse.
Below are a five tips on how to help manage these symptoms:
- Write it Down. I carry sticky notes and a pen with me everywhere, so when my brain is flooded with thoughts, I can organize them on paper. I no longer need to carry those ideas in my head, worrying about forgetting something. This also allows me to break things down into manageable pieces. In addition, I can cross ideas off as they are no longer relevant, which adds a sense of accomplishment and conclusion.
- Plan Ahead. Sometimes we know our triggers and sometimes they surprise us. However, knowing what the plan is can help us prepare for what is expected. I find it helpful to know who all will be attending and how long the event will last, among other questions more specific to each plan.
- Find Your Support System. Is there someone you can confide with if you need a bit more support? Would they be around to join you for anything? Or available by phone or text? Sometimes this is a family member, friend, a faith community, support group, therapist or mental health provider, or other support. I have a code word with a few close people, in case I needed some extra support at larger events.
- Make Time for Self-Care. Even though the holiday season can be busy, try to make time for yourself and your mental health. Even just a few minutes every day to practice self-care strategies can help manage your symptoms. For a list of self-care strategies, see our previous blog.
- Create an Exit Strategy. Sometimes we need an escape and that is OK. Whether it is saying no to something or leaving halfway through, your health and sense of safety comes first! If I just need a few minutes, I will use the bathroom as an excuse. At events that I need to leave, my code word comes in handy. The other person knows to wrap up the conversation and start saying our goodbyes.
If someone you know is struggling this Holiday season, let them know you care and ask them how you can support them. For more information on how to support a friend who is a survivor, check out the TAOS friend and ally resource here.
We hope you all have a wonderful Holiday season!
