Holiday mental health requires give and take

    The last two months of the year can be a whirlwind of dinners, parties, family, friends, holidays and fun, but more often than not, there’s also a dose of stress, anxiety, worry and depression to contend with as well.
    Michael Hinton, clinical director for the northeast region, said that Centennial Mental Health absolutely sees people struggle more during the holidays. It’s a busy and tiring time that deviates from normal routines. On top of that, people tend to avoid uncomfortable situations more, so they’ll often forgo appointments with their mental health professionals, making those problems even worse.
    Hinton recommends seeking out professional advice for coping with the holidays, be it from a mental health provider, a member of the clergy or a caretaker. The important thing is to keep current, rather than avoiding troublesome topics.
    During the holidays especially, there can be a pressure to impress others, keeping up with the homes, meals, activities, gifts and appearances that people broadcast on social media. The comparison might even be with one’s own past holidays that seem flawless in retrospect.
    The expectation of a perfect holiday can lead to undue stress and disappointments that can take a toll on mental health if left unchecked.
    Hinton shared several areas in which people can practice self care during the holidays. Things like slowing down, practicing gratitude, eating right and exercising may seem simple, but they have the potential to make quite the difference.
    Summed up here as “the big 8,” each method of self care has been paired with a way to care for others. Put simply, Hinton suggested that those who are able create a space that is safe, comfortable and welcoming for others who may be going through a hard time.
    Sometimes planning ahead and practicing self care aren’t enough. Colorado Crisis Services offers a hotline for people who find themselves needing extra help. To speak with a trained crisis counselor, call 844-493-TALK. Alternatively, text “TALK” to 38255 to be immediately put in contact with a trained counselor, ready to text about anything.
    If someone is in immediate danger or needs medical attention, call 911.

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