The month of December brings about an expectation of time spent with loved ones, alongside celebrations for the holiday season. However, we understand that this is not everyone’s reality. The holiday season can look different for everyone and we want to make sure you have the right tools needed to navigate through this season. 

One of the first things we can do this season is to do a mental health check-in. 

How are you really feeling these days? 

With the colder months brings loss of sunlight and oftentimes our mental health is affected in major ways. Seasonal depression, also known as the winter blues, is a subtype of depression that occurs each year. Colder weather and less natural sunlight are both contributing factors. 

Many people also experience grief during the holidays due to the loss of a loved one. It can be hard to face such festive celebrations when you don’t feel that same sense of joy. Though seasonal depression and grief are different experiences, both can be stigmatized for being a "downer" during this festive time.

If you find yourself experiencing a lack of energy, loss of interest in usual activities, or overwhelming feelings of sadness, please consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Help is available and you don’t have to deal with those feelings alone. 

Whether it’s seasonal depression or overall despair about the holiday season, here are 5 tips on how to navigate this time:

1. Be intentional about self-care 

Winter months are not the time to slack on self-care. Whether it’s pulling out the fancy bath products, treating yourself to something from your wishlist, or simply binge watching your favorite show, be intentional about self-care this season. Rest is not earned and you deserve to take some time to yourself. 

2. Schedule time with your community 

During the holidays, it’s normal to get caught up in the busyness of the season. Because of this, we have to be even more intentional about spending time with our community. Whether it’s setting a reminder to call a long distance loved one or preparing a dish to share with a friend, be intentional this season about being a good steward of the relationships in your life. 

3. Establish AND enforce boundaries  

This one can be tricky. Setting boundaries can often make people upset and that’s okay. You are not required to manage their emotions. Setting boundaries is a form of taking care of your mental health and you deserve to be in safe places. 

4. Seek out help from a trusted mental health professional  

Whether it’s texting 988 for immediate support, showing up to your regular appointments, or researching a new provider for 2024, it’s ok not to be ok and it’s ok to reach out for support. For a more in-depth conversation on therapy, check out our Therapy 101 blog. 

5. BE GENTLE WITH YOURSELF

Remember that there is no right or wrong way to navigate this season. Show yourself kindness, feel your feelings, and do the best you possibly can. We are rooting for you. 

For more mental health resources, please visit our website or check out all of our free educational material.