While the holidays can be a time of great joy and fun, it can also be a time of stress, anxiety, and even depression for some. Whether it’s the pressure of gift-giving, the thought of being alone for the holidays, or navigating personal and family issues, the holiday season can take a toll on our mental health. That's why at Moonstone we wanted to share our guide to managing your mental health around the holidays. Here are our tips to help you feel more centered, grounded, and joyful this season.

Honor your feelings

It's okay to feel anxious or sad around the holidays. Allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgment or guilt. Don't be afraid to talk about your feelings with someone you trust, whether it's a friend, family member, or therapist. Talking about how you're feeling can help relieve stress and anxiety, as well as provide an outlet for any negative emotions that might arise during this time of year.

Get Moving

Physical activity is one of the best ways to manage stress and improve your overall mood during the holidays. Exercise releases endorphins which can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms while boosting energy levels and self-esteem at the same time. Aim for 10 to 30 minutes of exercise each day—it doesn’t have to be intense—just enough to warm up and get your body moving!

Simplify wherever possible

The holidays can quickly become overwhelming with parties, shopping, and obligations. Simplify where possible and create realistic expectations for the season. Consider setting a budget for gift-giving or opting for a gift exchange instead. Say NO to invitations or activities that feel like too much. Remember that you don't have to do everything. By making a list of all the things you need to do and prioritizing them according to what’s most important, you can stay focused, cross off and delegate what’s not for you, and avoid feelings of overwhelm.

Take time for yourself

The holidays can be an incredibly busy time of year, but it’s important not to forget about taking care of yourself too! Schedule blocks of “me time” throughout the week where you can relax and recharge without any distractions or obligations from others around you. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, meditating, or just sitting quietly with your thoughts—taking some alone time will help keep your mind clear and refreshed so you can enjoy all the festivities this season has to offer!

Find joy in small things

Finally, focus on the small things that bring joy into your life during this season - spending quality time with family members or friends, enjoying a hot cup of cocoa on a cold winter night, watching holiday movies curled up on the couch. Focusing on these moments of joy can help lift your spirits during this festive season.

The holidays can be a challenging time for mental health. WIth just a bit of planning, you can take charge of your mental health and enjoy the holidays with greater ease and joy. As you honor your emotions and take care of yourself, your capacity to experience the joy of the season expands. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season.