The holiday season often evokes feelings of joy, laughter, and the warmth of togetherness. It’s a time to celebrate and enjoy the company of family and friends. However, for many people, the holidays can be a challenging time marked by the absence of loved ones or the weight of mental health struggles. At Stigma-Free Society, we understand the importance of addressing these challenges and providing support, especially at a moment where those who are struggling may feel alone. In this post, we’re sharing no-cost resources and practical tips to help you boost your well-being during the holidays and help others do the same.

Stigma-Free Coping Strategies

Stigma-Free Society offers mental wellness education to people of all ages, designed to help people cope with mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and spread this knowledge throughout their communities. We provide accessible resources to students and school staff who need mental health support during the holidays and at any time of the year. If you are an educator looking for tools to improve your own mental wellness and teach students about this important topic, we invite you to browse the wealth of no-cost resources available in our Student Mental Health Toolkit.

We also offer resources specifically for individuals living in rural and agricultural areas through our Rural Mental Wellness Toolkit. The holidays can be a particularly difficult time for rural residents, and there is pervasive stigma around mental health in many rural communities. The Rural Mental Wellness Toolkit offers hope to those who are struggling, from inspiring personal stories shared by rural residents to resources on mental wellness, work-life balance, and more.

Supporting Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers

Parents, guardians, and caregivers often find themselves dealing with concerns about their youth’s mental well-being during the holiday season. Stigma-Free Society’s Resources for Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers section in the Student Mental Health Toolkit is designed to assist parents in navigating these challenges. Our conversation cards facilitate open dialogues about mental health, and our comprehensive Parent Resource Guide offers guidance on getting youth help when they need it the most.

Tips for Boosting Mental Well-Being During the Holidays

Besides making use of the resources that are available to you online, here are some simple ways to care for your mental health if you find yourself struggling during the holidays:

• Acknowledge your feelings. It’s okay if you don’t feel joyful or festive during this time, even when it feels like everyone else does. Give yourself permission to feel. Allow yourself to acknowledge and experience your emotions without judgment.
• Create new traditions. If the usual holiday traditions feel too overwhelming or painful, consider creating new ones that bring joy and comfort.
• Reach out for support. Connect with friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your feelings with those you trust can provide relief and remind you that you’re not alone.
• Practice self-care. Take time for self-care activities that nurture your mental well-being when possible. Whether it’s a quiet walk, reading a book, or enjoying a hot bath, prioritize activities that bring you peace.
• Volunteer or give back. The holidays are a perfect opportunity to give back to your community, and engaging in acts of kindness can be incredibly fulfilling. Consider volunteering at a local organization or supporting a charitable cause to bring a sense of purpose to your holidays.
• Set Boundaries. It’s okay to say no to events or activities that feel overwhelming. If you are struggling, it may help to pay extra attention to what your body and mind need and recognize when you need a break. Boundary-setting can help you set realistic expectations and put your mental health first.

Spread the Stigma-Free Spirit!

As we navigate the complex emotions that can come up during the holiday season, let’s work together to promote compassion and understanding. By making use of Stigma-Free Society’s programs and implementing these practical tips, we can collectively contribute to creating a supportive environment for all. Remember, your mental well-being matters, and we are here to offer you hope and encouragement on your journey. Explore our no-cost resources and share them with those who you think could benefit from them. Check on your loved ones this holiday season and engage in open conversations about mental health to reduce feelings of shame or discomfort around these topics.

On behalf of the Stigma-Free Team, thank you for taking a few moments to learn about navigating mental wellness during the holidays and making an effort to care for yourself and others. Your dedication helps reduce stigma around mental health and makes the world a better place. We wish you all the best in the coming year!

By: Monique Zizzo