It's that time of year—the holidays are around the corner, the days are getting shorter, and the nights are getting colder. This season can be challenging for many people for various reasons. Some may experience seasonal affective disorder, others may feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of the holidays, and some may feel the effects of isolation or missing loved ones. Meanwhile, others may sail through this time of year with energy and positivity.
No matter how you're feeling this holiday season, prioritizing your mental well-being is essential. While mental well-being is important year-round, it's especially crucial in helping us get through the long and stressful days that we can experience during the holiday season.
I have put together a list of things to try and help this time of year be a bit more enjoyable and hopefully a little less stressful.
Get active - This is always my go-to stress reliever—the one thing that always makes me feel better, no matter what’s happening in my life. It’s also the habit I encourage the most with my kids and family. It’s such a small thing, but it can have a big impact on your day. Getting active, even in small amounts, releases endorphins—your body’s natural mood boosters—and helps reduce stress and anxiety.
During the winter months, staying active can be a bit more challenging, but there are plenty of things you can do from the comfort of your own home if braving the cold isn’t your cup of tea. Home exercise equipment is a great option, but if you don’t have access to any, there are still lots of alternatives. You can try yoga poses, body stretches, or even walking up and down a flight of stairs a few times—it all adds up!
If you enjoy being outside and soaking in the beautiful winter days, the South Cariboo is the perfect place to be. It’s home to amazing outdoor activities like ice fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skiing, and tobogganing. For something slower-paced, the marsh in town is an excellent spot for a peaceful winter walk.
Remember, it’s ok to say no – If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the amount of socializing that can come with this time of year, know that it’s perfectly fine to say no and stay home instead. This season can be packed with family gatherings, friends’ get-togethers,
Christmas parties, staff parties, holiday open houses, and festive dinners... just writing about it all is exhausting!
Trying to fit everything into an already busy schedule can be overwhelming, and preparing for all these extra events can add significant stress. Don’t feel guilty or bad for not being able to do it all. Saying no can be a tough decision, but sometimes it’s the best one.
Spreading yourself too thin can leave you feeling run-down, which is not good for your mental or physical well-being. Overcommitting can lead to a lack of sleep, feelings of stress and overwhelm, and even a weakened immune system.
The people you’re saying no to will likely understand, and you can always ask for a rain check at a less hectic time. Remember, if you’re overworked, exhausted, and overwhelmed, you won’t be much help to anyone—especially yourself.
Check in with each other – Check in with neighbours, friends, family, or even strangers. Not everyone is okay during this time of year, and not everyone has friends or family checking in on them. Sometimes, a simple “Hi, how are you doing?” can brighten someone’s day.
It’s important to remember that some people may appear happy on the outside while struggling internally. Many are skilled at hiding their struggles, giving no outward signs for loved ones to notice. A caring check-in might be the opportunity they need to open up and say they’re not okay. Just knowing someone cares enough to ask can go a long way in showing them they’re not alone and that someone genuinely cares.
If you know someone who might feel isolated during this time of year, make an extra effort to check in on them. Whether it’s a quick pop-in visit or sitting down for a chat and coffee, your effort could make a meaningful difference in their day and help prevent loneliness from setting in.
For those who are unable to get out during the winter months, isolation can lead to feelings of depression, loneliness, anxiety, and even cabin fever—this is especially true for those who live alone. Harsh winter driving conditions can make it harder for people to visit others, and some may go long periods without seeing anyone.
If you’re able, consider dropping by a neighbour’s or friend’s home for a quick coffee or a brief visit. Your time and presence could make all the difference.
This holiday season may or may not be your favourite time of year, but it can be what you make of it. Whether you love it or not, this time of year can be stressful, and prioritizing your mental well-being is often the thing we put off until last.
It’s easy to keep going and going, putting others first, but remember—you are a top priority too. It might take some time to get used to, but your future self will thank you for making your well-being a priority.
Remember to be kind to yourself, practice self-care, and reach out for help if you need it.
If you need support, you can:
• Contact CMHA South Cariboo for mental health support at 250-395-4883. The office is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Call the Emergency Crisis Line 24 hours a day at 1-888-353-2273.
• Call the Suicide Crisis Line at 9-8-8. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
