PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The holiday season is here, and while it can be a time of great joy, it can also take a toll with your mental health. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, 38 percent of people surveyed say their stress increases during the holiday season.
“People are under a lot of pressure during the holiday season. Whether it be making sure to get everyone what they want for Christmas, trying to find time for all the holiday activities, and even working on resolutions for the new year,” explains Sarah Ellsworth, PMH-NP, a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner at Northern Light AR Gould Hospital.
During this time of year, in addition to the stress of the holidays, people’s mental health can also be affected by the decrease in daylight. This can negatively impact mood and sleep patterns.
“So, we already have the limited daylight issue going against us, and then we add stress of the holidays. This can be a significant impact,” she says.
Set boundaries
“A common problem that people face during the holidays is feeling burnt out from all the activities that are going on. Setting boundaries is especially important,” Ellsworth says. “Take a look at some of the activities you’re doing this holiday season. Take some time to slow down, identify the things that create the most stress and create healthy boundaries.
Don’t strive for perfection
The holidays are a time for family and togetherness, not the “perfect” Hallmark moment. Don’t add that unnecessary stress onto yourself.
Identify when self-care is needed
“If you feel burned out or overwhelmed with the holidays, take time for yourself,” advises Ellsworth. This could mean getting some exercise, relaxing with a good book, focusing on positivity, or any number of ways to prioritize your mental health.
Set attainable goals
“People often try to make a big change as a resolution for the new year. For example, instead of making a resolution to drink less caffeine, they make a resolution to drink no caffeine. They find that within two weeks, they are back to drinking caffeine, making them feel like they failed, which isn’t true. They just tried to implement a very big change in a short amount of time.” Ellsworth says.
Instead, she suggests taking the small and steady route. “Let’s say your goal is to cut your caffeine intake by half. The best way to make a resolution successful is to start by setting up a plan. Maybe you start your plan by drinking one cup of coffee less per day. Then in a month, increase it to two less, and so forth,” she advises. “It’s also okay to have a bad day and slip back into old habits. That doesn’t mean that you lose that goal. Just start back at it once you feel up to doing so.”
Get help if you need it
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, Ellsworth says they are resources available. “There are therapists available, especially in a telehealth community. People can find therapy and be linked with a therapist online very quickly now.”
Individuals can be linked to available mental health services by calling 211 or visiting 211 Maine online at Maine Mental Health Services | Counseling| 211 Maine.
