According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 64 percent of individuals living with a mental illness felt that their conditions worsened around the holidays. 

This article identified six common issues that come up this year—including lacking the holiday spirit and the pressure to be social and happy, overwhelmed by grief, stressed about giving gifts, and seasonal affective disorder. 

These are all common feelings that many people feel. And I wish I could say that there was a magic potion that could fix all of these feelings. That may not be the most popular response, but I’m the type of person that wishes for that easy fix. But there’s no magic potion. 

This blog post is for anyone feeling anxious or extra overwhelmed during this holiday season. Your feelings are valid, and I hope this blog post helps you feel at least a little better. 

You don’t need to force yourself to be happy. 

There’s that saying around Christmas, “merry and bright.” And that this season brings joy and good tidings. But for some, that may not be the case. Even if nothing is going right, and you just can’t get over these anxious feelings, you don’t need to force yourself to be happy. Let yourself feel the feelings and remember that your feelings are valid and true. 

But don’t isolate yourself. 

Take care of yourself, which means do some self-care that makes you feel good and better, but don’t isolate yourself. Surround yourself with people who love you and support you and know what you’re going through; they’ll understand if you tell them that you need to be alone from time to time, but open up to someone about these feelings rather than staying alone. If you’re one of the people that spend the holidays alone, take yourself out to dinner to be surrounded by people. 

Know your limitations. 

You are the only one that knows your limitations. Do you have a lot of commitments, or a lot of things on the calendar this holiday season? Consider letting some of those things go to protect your peace. Are you the type of person (introvert) that needs time to recharge? Let your friends and/or family know that you need that time. 

Set boundaries. 

Just like knowing your limitations, set boundaries with things and people in your life. Turn off social media and take time for yourself. You know what causes you anxiety; try to limit those things in your life. 

Treat others with kindness. 

When in doubt, be kind, amirite? I think this needs no further explanation, but just remember to treat other people with kindness. Being surrounded by family who may not agree with your values and beliefs, especially around the holidays, can be difficult. Overall, be kind.  

Set a consistent sleep and eating schedule. 

Sticking to a consistent sleep and eating schedule is crucial. Whether or not you may be tempted to forget a meal from time to time or not be able to sleep at night, stick to your consistent schedule. Don’t stray from schedule just because of the holiday season. 

Talk to someone. 

The holiday season is filled with travel. While it’s tempting to cancel your therapy appointments, make time in your schedule to talk to someone. Maybe it’s talking to a licensed professional counselor, or maybe you can talk to a trusted friend or adult.