Relationship dynamics can play a huge role in how you navigate the holidays for several reasons. In many cases, we are expected to show up and show out when we don’t have the capacity to do so by our families, friends, and ourselves. When we expect things to look like what we see in movies and on social media, it can skew our reality and take us away from what we really need during the holidays.
Prioritizing your own wellness over the holiday season begins with identifying your capacity for relationships in your life. Whether it’s challenging circumstances in your family, time spent with others, or incorporating a significant other into your traditions, think about what is important to you and how much energy it requires. Here is how you can manage and prioritize your mental health during the holidays:
- Say “no” when you need to
- Be a little selfish for your own well-being
- Commit to a self-care routine
- Reflect on your own needs
- Put a time limit on things (family gatherings, social events)
When you need a vacation from your holiday break, you are usually not using your time off effectively. Don’t be scared to put yourself first when you are being sucked into all the things you need to do! Your mental health is important, even during the holidays.
Thanks for reading!
