Handling the Holiday Blues

Despite the stores putting out Christmas decorations the day after Halloween, this special time of year is so short, and we all feel the pressure to make it as perfect as possible. We want to find the perfect gifts for everyone, plan the most meaningful get-togethers, remember every tradition, and make as many joyful memories as possible. Many living with mental health conditions report that the holidays worsen how they feel due to the pressure and stress. The holidays can also increase feelings of depression, loneliness, and anxiety. Before the stress of holidays gets to you, take some time to check on your own mental well-being by following some of the tips below, as well as checking out some of the helpful resources we’ve included.

Remember “your holiday, your choice”

We say holidays are a time to celebrate with loved ones, but in reality, many people do not have healthy, safe relationships with their families. The holidays have a way of amplifying existing family stress. Ask yourself if the stress, frustration, and hurt you may feel is worth it just because you feel obligated to be around family. You can only control how you feel and react, and it’s important to protect your mental well-being during the holidays. It is ok to change things up and celebrate with friends or found family if things are too hurtful or stressful.

Set realistic expectations

Do not set yourself up for disappointment during the holidays by not managing your expectations for people and events. While you may be hopeful, it’s not realistic to expect people to miraculously change or to suddenly be on their best behavior just for the holidays. Take some time to work through your feelings and expectations so you can manage your own emotions and plan for a healthy, happy holiday season.

Set healthy boundaries for yourself and respect the boundaries set by others

Boundaries exist in every relationship and are healthy expressions of the mutual respect and understanding we have for one another. You may worry that boundaries can cause conflict or distance, but not communicating openly will most certainly end in hurt feelings and problems. Remember that boundaries are meant to be communicated openly, work both ways, and that they are not tit-for-tat punishments. If someone you care about has asked you to do or not do something this holiday season, respect their wishes and avoid the unnecessary stress. You can only control how you respond, so make sure you remain respectful and open this holiday season.

Remember that it’s ok not to be ok

Many people feel obligated to put aside their grief, depression, anxiety, or stress because they want to make the holidays perfect for those around them, and because they may feel guilty about not being in the “holiday spirit.”

While some people may find comfort in celebrating the holidays with loved ones, others may need a break from it all to process whatever it is they are going through. The spirit of the holidays also includes showing kindness and compassion to those around who are struggling. Rather than pressure them to get over it or guilt them into participating, do not treat their feelings and struggles like burdens. Treating everyone with compassion and understanding is so important, especially for those who are navigating the first holiday season after the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a stressful new chapter in life. Let them take the lead in expressing what they need to get through the holidays, and don’t take it personally if they need some space.

Get the help you need

If you or someone you care about is struggling at this time of year, remember that there is help available. Asking for help takes courage, and we should encourage those around us to seek professional help when they need it. Getting support for your own mental health is not a sign of weakness, so treat yourself with kindness as you put in the work. Below are local and national resources that are available

You and your loved ones deserve to have a happy, healthy holiday season. Sometimes that means doing things a little bit differently to protect your mental well-being as you navigate stressful situations. Remember that it’s ok not to be ok, and to extend yourself the same kindness that you show to others this holiday season.

Resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 to speak with a trained responder

• SMA healthcare 24/7 Hotline: Dial (800) 539-4228 to speak with a local, trained mental healthcare professional

• United Way 211 hotline: Dial 211 to get connected with community resources of all kinds-anything from mental health to financial assistance.

• Mental Health America “Hope for the Holidays”

• National Council on Aging “ Mental Health and the Holidays: 9 tips for Self-Care”

• Maintaining Mental Health During the Holiday Season

• Managing Your Mental Wellbeing During the Holiday Season

About Florida Health Care Plans

Founded in 1974, Florida Health Care Plans (FHCP) is a pioneering provider of health insurance plans and comprehensive healthcare services, available to individuals, families, employer groups, and Medicare-eligible individuals. Headquartered in Daytona Beach, FHCP serves more than 105,000 members throughout Brevard, Flagler, St. Johns, Seminole, and Volusia Counties.

An affiliate of Florida Blue and part of the GuideWell family of health solutions companies, FHCP offers access to a provider network of more than 9,500 doctors, specialists, and hospitals. FHCP also provides integrated care services at its community-based facilities, including primary and multi-specialty care, radiology, ultrasound, laboratory, in-house pharmacies, as well as extended hours and Ambulatory Surgery Center services. FHCP is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

For additional information, visit www.FHCP.com. For the latest news and content, visit the FHCP Newsroom and follow FHCP on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram @floridahealthcareplans, and X (formerly Twitter) @myFHCP.