The Cariboo Mental Health Association South Cariboo knows that while the holiday season may be a time of joy for many, for others, it can actually make depression and anxiety worse. Be prepared. If you’re dreading the holidays, don’t let them happen to you. Get out in front of them. And take good care. Holidays aren’t magical for everyone. That’s because the “most wonderful time of the year” can be fraught with challenges and situations that affect our mental health.
This holiday season, remember that you don’t have to be the perfect host. You don’t have to have an ideal house because no one lives in museums, and they won’t remember a spot of dirt you may have forgotten or kids’ toys that were not picked up. If the duty falls on you to host the family get-together this year, remember to delegate, delegate, delegate! Many hands make light work, and people like to pitch in and feel like they are helping; it’s their holiday, too!
Whether you’re a social butterfly or a homebody, sometimes all the busyness of staff parties, family gatherings, and Friendsgiving can be too much. These parties are often filled with excitability mixed with alcohol and can often create tension and stress even before arriving at the party. If you don’t want to go, don’t. You can change your mind at the last minute and call and cancel; that’s ok too! You are free to pick and choose the parties and gatherings you want to attend, and you are free to leave those parties at any time if you are not enjoying yourself.
Remember that only you can choose what makes you happy! Take time out of the hustle and bustle to focus on self-care; your future self will thank you! For more tips on surviving holiday stress, follow us on Facebook @ The Canadian Mental Health Association South Cariboo and Instagram @ CMHA South Cariboo.
If you are struggling, know that there is help and hope.
If, despite your best efforts, you feel overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety or sadness, or if your negative feelings are persistent or get in the way of your daily life, you should reach out for mental health support: Contact CMHA South Cariboo for help! CMHA South Cariboo 250-395- 4883. You can always call the Emergency Crisis Line 24 hours a day @ 1-888-353-2273 or you can always call the suicide crisis line at # 9-8-8 24 hours a day.
Kristin Wells, CMHA Community Navigator
