After a hectic hurricane season, treat yourself to some rest, relaxation, and a little holiday cheer.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year but can also be the most overwhelming. Do you find yourself feeling anxious or stressed over the holiday season? You’re not alone. The added pressure to find the perfect gift, the anxiety of crowded shopping malls, extra spending, and overindulgence on holiday treats can make you feel anything but calm and bright.
Not to mention – back-to-back hurricanes in Hillsborough County have many residents still recovering and not in the mood to celebrate.
According to the American Psychological Association (ASA), it is very common for people who have experienced disaster to have strong emotional reactions.
To build emotional well-being and gain a sense of control following a disaster:
- Give yourself time to adjust. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time and allow yourself to be patient with changes in your emotional state.
- Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation. There are resources available 24/7, 365.
- Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest.
- Establish or reestablish routines. Build in some positive activities to have something to look forward to.
If you’re ready to participate in holiday parties but don’t want to burn out, try setting some boundaries and prioritize self-care:
- If you feel overwhelmed by the amount of holiday gatherings, it’s ok to RSVP “NO.” According to Mental Health America (MHA), pushing yourself too hard to participate in events can trigger symptoms of social anxiety.
- If you’re stressed about the extra spending, Hillsborough County Extension Service can help you balance your budget with several no-cost resources and personal finance advice.
- Enjoy the sweets and treats without overdoing it. According to Mental Health America, having a balanced diet can boost energy, lower the risk of developing certain diseases, counteract the impacts of stress on your body, and more.
- Ask for help. You don’t have to feel alone over the holidays. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) says extra stress, unrealistic expectations, or even sentimental memories that accompany the season can trigger what’s known “the holiday blues.” Some can be at risk for feelings of loneliness, sadness, fatigue, tension, and a sense of loss. There are free mental health resources available all over Hillsborough County.
Mindful Mondays Mental Health Resources
Mindful Mondays promotes different ways you can make your mental health a priority but not take up too much of your busy schedule. From chair yoga virtual classes to tips on how to decompress after a long day, Hillsborough County's Mindful Mondays has various interactive resources for you to access no matter what day or time it is.
Interested in mindful videos that help improve your mental health? Check out the Mindful Monday's YouTube Playlist.