How to Prevent Holiday Burnout While Maintaining Mental Wellbeing

The other day on Instagram, I saw a countdown for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. The news is regularly talking about gift buying, and when stepping into any store, twinkling lights cover the displays. Many find this time of year magical, while just as many become enveloped with overwhelm, anxiety; and quickly reach burnout. Burnout includes the exhaustion of one's emotional, physical, and mental being. A survey conducted by the American Psychological Association found that people in the U.S. are likely to feel stressed during this time of year.

As we enter yet another festive season that isn't quite the same as pre-2020, it's essential to create mental wellbeing boundaries. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to guarding our mental wellbeing, but here are a few ideas to help you relish this holiday season to the fullest. 

Control Your Calendar
The first thing to remember is you do not have to accept every invitation. There are always so many parties, errands, and special events that fill our schedules. And when we say yes, yes yes, we leave no room for a for Me Time. It is our responsibility to plan for our needs so that we don't run straight into burnout. Making time for ourselves is what helps balance this busy season. Just as we would put a party on the calendar, scheduling non-negotiable self-care will help us to remain accountable for times of much-needed renewal. 

Recognize Your Emotions
Either you find the holiday season a bright spot in the year, or it can be triggering and not so cheery. For some, families are gathering. And for others, it leaves them feeling lonely or even grief-stricken due to a recent loss or inability to be together with loved ones. Those who already struggle with anxiety or depression can have an increase in symptoms. Wherever you are on the holiday season spectrum of emotions, prepare yourself. No emotion is wrong. It is okay to cry and to laugh. Take a deep breath and note your feelings.

Accept Help
We each have a role to play and don't have to do everything alone. Ask guests to bring their favorite dish to share, or family members to help tidy up the house.  

Keep Moving
Many of us pause exercising and getting outside this time of year, whether it is due to busy schedules or even cold weather. Yet evidence shows that getting outside and moving our bodies leads to positive health outcomes, including mental health.

Don't let this season become a time of dread. Instead, take steps to secure control. Despite best efforts, you may feel persistently anxious or sad. If you are looking for additional support as you walk through this season, please reach out. You don't need to suffer through the "holiday blues." Pivot Counseling Services is accepting new clients and can help with holiday triggers that cause anxiety or sadness.