Get enough sleep
It’s important to get enough sleep every day, not only to maintain mental health, but also to prevent chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and mental distress.
Eat a balanced and nutritious diet
Relaxing during the holiday season can cause people to reach for higher-fat and higher-sugar foods—which can then cause even more stress or anxiety. In order to maintain healthy eating habits during the holidays—and in the days after—try to add or substitute healthier foods, including fresh fruits and veggies, to your meal plan
Avoid alcohol and drugs
If you’re feeling sad or anxious, you may benefit from abstaining from drugs or alcohol, since both substances can make negative emotions feel stronger or harder to manage or make sense of.
Get in some physical activity
Holidays can lead people astray from their workout routines—but exercising regularly can ease symptoms of depression or anxiety. Choose activities you enjoy and maybe try exercising with family or friends.
Connect with friends or family
Leaning on your friends and family can help you continue to feel connected and not alone. Close connections could also be useful in helping you navigate what you are going through.
Schedule activities in advance
We all need something to look forward to after we’ve been away from work or home having fun and relaxing – so plan things in ahead of time.
Try something new
If you plan on making plans for future activities, you can stick to something tried-and-tested, like eating at your favourite restaurant or scheduling a game night with close friends. But you could also try a new activity on for size—like trying a new recipe at home or taking a dance class that you’ve been eyeing for a while. Go somewhere you’ve never been – this can really lift your mood while creating a whole load of new memories at the same time.
If you’re still struggling after all this, reach out for help. You’re never alone.
