Now that darker days and colder nights are upon us, prioritizing your mental wellbeing is more important than ever. The holidays can be an exciting and joyful time for some students, but they can cause loneliness and stress for others. This can be due to several factors, from the busyness of the season — including financial stress and time constraints — marking the first holiday without a loved one, or encountering challenges with others.
The stress of these factors may cause people to use maladaptive coping mechanisms, including misusing alcohol or other drugs or isolating themselves. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that 64% of individuals living with a mental illness felt that their conditions worsened around the holidays.
Below are some tips to help you maintain a positive wellbeing throughout the next few months. Taking small steps throughout the season can help make the holidays more enjoyable and less stressful, leading to a smooth transition back to campus in January.
Stay connected with loved ones and friends that make you feel safe and accepted
Reach out to friends, even if they’re far away. A quick call or text can help you feel connected and supported. Plan time to see people who make you feel good over the break.
Honor your boundaries
If family gatherings or certain topics stress you out, try setting gentle boundaries. It's okay to excuse yourself, limit time with certain people, or redirect conversations to protect your mental space.
Focus on your physical health through movement and nutritionally balanced food
The holidays provide a lot of opportunities for family gatherings around the table. Practice eating a variety of foods, including fruit, vegetables, dairy, protein, and fun foods. Increase movement exercise you enjoy, whether that’s taking a walk outside or dancing with a family member or friend. Activities like this can decrease stress and increase joy.
Find joy with your favorite activities
Use the holidays to prioritize the things you want to, amidst a lot of expectations that might be placed on your time. Enjoy reading a book, doing some arts and crafts, or watching a TV show you haven’t had the time to watch yet.
Stick to a Routine
Maintaining a regular sleep and meal schedule helps regulate your mood. Even with a break from classes, try to keep a steady routine to prepare for the spring semester. Notice your sleep has lacked this semester? Reset your sleep patterns over winter break by utilizing the free sleep program, Refresh, through Student Wellness.
Set Realistic Expectations
The holiday season is often idealized, but it doesn’t have to be perfect. Let go of perfectionism and focus on small moments of joy and relaxation. Fall and winter break is meant to feel like a pause from a long semester, so enjoy it!
Seek Help If Needed
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for more support. Utilize University Counseling Service, support and crisis hotlines, or a local mental health professional.