During the month of December, we often hear holiday greetings and popular phrases like “Merry & Bright” and "Peace on Earth & Goodwill to Men.” These words are meant to offer good tidings and well-wishes to those we encounter. The phrase "Peace on Earth" carries a global message of love and harmony, qualities that we all possess.
In recent years, however, it has sometimes been difficult to feel a sense of peace due to natural disasters, political unrest, financial stress, and armed conflicts. We have been inundated with information from various sources, which has contributed to elevated stress levels and a sense of anxiety. Thankfully, there are measures we can take to reduce feelings of being overwhelmed and limit the stressors associated with the holiday season.
Take the time to assess how you are feeling, and if necessary, try a few of the following tips to protect your mental health during the holidays:
Limit exposure to news coverage and social media platforms. Set boundaries around how you consume news and how often. Seek information from reputable sources and stick to a time limit, for example, 30 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes in the evening.
Spend time with others. Find ways to spend the holidays with people, whether they are friends, family, or new acquaintances. Attend social gatherings, participate in family activities, or invite someone who may be spending the holidays alone.
Connect with your community. This may be the perfect time to attend cultural events, explore local attractions, or volunteer at a local food bank or other charitable organization.
Manage expectations. The best-laid plans may not go perfectly, and seeking perfection can often lead to disappointment. You might not be able to attend every function, every dish may not turn out as expected, and plans may change unexpectedly. Accepting these imperfections and focusing on the true spirit of the holidays will help create a more joyful, less stressful experience.
Establish a budget. Set a realistic budget for gift-giving and holiday activities, and stick to it. One of the major stressors during the holiday season is finances, especially when we overextend ourselves. Create a healthy budget that won't lead to burdensome credit card payments in the new year.
Take care of yourself. Engage in self-care activities, such as meditation, yoga, and grounding exercises. Attend holiday functions, but make sure to get enough rest, eat healthy food alongside the holiday treats, exercise regularly, and monitor your consumption of intoxicating substances.
Most importantly, give yourself and your loved ones the gift of peace. While you may not be able to bring about world peace, you can certainly foster a sense of peace within your community, home, and self. Be mindful of how you’re feeling, and stay in tune with your emotions. If you or a loved one are struggling and need support during this holiday season, don't hesitate to reach out for help.
If you're going through a challenging time or need support for a family member, we encourage you to visit our Family Mental Health webpage. There, you'll find a range of helpful resources, including the MFS US Family Counsellor and the Family Information Line (FIL) at 1-800-866-4546.
Wishing you a safe and peaceful holiday season.
