We all know that the holidays can be a stressful time of year, and since it’s going to look a lot different this year, we can expect an added layer of stress and sadness.<\/p>\n
If you’re spending the holidays alone, it can be lonely and challenging. Nevertheless, to make your time spent alone a lot easier, we tapped five mental health professionals to share their best self-care tips to boost your mood.<\/p>\n
Focus on the good<\/strong> \u201cWriting and meditating on the things we are grateful for is a proven method to increase joy because it helps us find the positive, no matter our situation,\u201d Wiley explains. \u201cIf you do it every day, you will find over time that you see wonderful things all around you to add to your list for the next day’s gratitudes.\u201d<\/p>\n Enjoy your time alone \u201cGet away from the internet, social media, and other busy distractions, and spend some quiet time in solitude,\u201d she says. \u201cEven if you are an extrovert, it’s good to slow down and give our brains a break from the chaos.\u201d<\/p>\n Help those in need \u201cGiving back can be as simple as an anonymous $10 gift card for the grocery store or gas station, or as elaborate as \u2018adopting\u2019 a local family in need for gift-giving,\u201d she tells FabFitFun. \u201cKeeping our eyes off of our own troubles, and instead focusing on helping others, is a solid strategy for increased joy.\u201d<\/p>\n Stay connected \u201cHoliday calls can be fatiguing, but they help you stay connected,\u201d he explains. \u201cThe more you can be in touch with your loved ones on holidays, the less isolation you’ll feel. This will also help with mood maintenance, and reducing your vulnerability to depression.\u201d<\/p>\n Get creative in the kitchen Take yourself on a date Keep a schedule “Think about how you want to structure your day to help manage feelings of sadness and stress,\u201d she explains. \u201cYou don’t have to pack your schedule with things, but having a few things to look forward to can help manage challenging emotions likes stress and sadness.\u201d<\/p>\n Limit social media exposure<\/strong> \u201cWhen you need to feel connected, don’t go on social media,\u201d Brigham tells FabFitFun. \u201cWhile it’s nice to see family and friends posting pictures, it won’t satisfy you in the way in which you need that feeling of connection.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nWhether it\u2019s writing a gratitude list, or taking the time to meditate, focusing on all the blessings in your life always puts you in a good state of mind, according to Erin Wiley, a licensed clinical psychotherapist, MA, LPC, LPCC<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>Let\u2019s be honest: the holidays are notoriously busy — even in times of social isolation. With this in mind, Wiley suggests giving yourself permission to enjoy your time alone and using it as an opportunity to unplug from the stressors of the world.<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>Since this holiday season will be tough for so many this year, Wiley recommends focusing your energy on people in need, especially in a year where so many have struggled with maintaining a stable income.<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>The past year has definitely taught us about the importance of staying connected with friends and family whenever possible, even if it’s done virtually through Zoom or FaceTime. And, of course, the holidays aren\u2019t any different, as psychologist Dr. Paul B. Greene, Ph.D.<\/a> advises scheduling chats with loved ones throughout the season. This helps establish a sense of connection with family and friends you won\u2019t be seeing this year.<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>\u201cFor many people, much of holiday joy comes from food,\u201d Dr. Green says. \u201cGive it a try this year, even if you don’t usually cook. If you can, share the experience with loved ones over video, so it will become a bit of a fun shared experience.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>\u201cAs strange as it may sound, take yourself out on a pandemic-friendly date this holiday season,\u201d says Boston-based psychotherapist Angela Ficken, LICSW<\/a>. \u201cBelieve it or not, a simple change in scenery can have positive effects on mood; so read for enjoyment, cook a favorite meal, get takeout at your favorite restaurant, or watch a movie while you take on a 1000-piece puzzle.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>While the holidays are definitely about rest and relaxation, Ficken advises keeping some kind of schedule, as it helps keep you focused, and allows you to manage holiday stress and sadness better.<\/p>\n
\nWhile social media can help us feel more connected to loved ones, you may want to limit your screen time if you are alone for the holidays, as psychotherapist Tess Brigham<\/a>, explains that it may trigger feelings of sadness and frustration.<\/p>\n