The holidays can be a challenging time for those who have a mental illness. The holidays can be filled with stress. The past two years have already been highly stressful with the Covid19 pandemic.

The pressure and stress can leave those who suffer from anxiety, depression, and other mental health illnesses feeling overwhelmed.

Knowing that this time of year brings stress and anxiety. Making a plan that will help you get through it is the first step.

Plan your path through the stress

With planning, you can help get through the stress of the holidays. We have some tips to help you get through the stress.

    • Continue counseling; if you need to add a few extra sessions, do so.
    • Try to get 8 hours of sleep.
    • Eat healthy meals and snacks.
    • Exercise is a fantastic way to release stress and anxiety. It also reduces blood pressure, helps control your blood sugar, and improves mental mood. It can also help drop extra pounds or maintain a healthy weight.
    • If you do not have a schedule, make one and stick to it as much as possible. Scheduling events can reduce the stress of forgetting until the last minute that you need to be somewhere. It can help you plan the number of gatherings you attend so you can spread them out and not feel so anxious or stressed about them.
    • When it comes to shopping for the holidays, make a list. Do your research for items on the internet, even purchase online if you are comfortable with that. Or, if you choose to go to the stores, having done your research, you will already know what you want to look at and which stores have it.
    • Have someone that you can call and talk to at any time if you need to talk about things that may be bothering you. A friend, family member, counselor, or even a clergy member can be the person you call.

Planning ahead, making a schedule, having someone you can talk to will help reduce your stress and anxiety. You can make it through the holidays.

Call 449 Recovery. 855-735-7449 we can help you through the holidays