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Navigating the Holidays:

PRIORITIZE

MENTAL HEALTH

During The Holiday Season

by Jessica Liria, Director of Prevention and Education Services
at David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health (DLC)
or many, the holiday season sparks
feelings of joy and connection. It’s a time
F to spend time with loved ones, enjoy
twinkling lights and festive celebrations, and
share in the spirit of the season.
Yet, the holidays can also have a significant
impact on a person’s mental health. Balancing
family obligations, financial pressures and
personal commitments can take a toll on a person’s mental health and
well being. Constant reminders of the season, from decorations in stores
to music on the radio, can be overwhelming for individuals or families
MORE MOVES with faced with challenges at home, work or school.
At David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health, we understand
that increased stress during the holiday season can lead to increased
anxiety or depression. Common stressors can include:
the WORLD’S #1 a loved one, causing a tremendous feeling of sadness from memories, Healthy coping skills are an important way to maintain positive
Loss and grief: The holiday season can reignite the grief of losing
traditions and milestones.
Strained family dynamics: Social pressure to bring everyone mental health and emotional well being all year long, and are especially
helpful during seasons of high stress, like holidays. Coping skills such as
together and enjoy time with family and friends may not be a reality for
IN ORTHOPEDICS everyone, creating added tension and feelings of anxiousness, frustration deep breathing, relaxation techniques, exercising, journaling, art or music
can be used several times a day to help relieve stress, mitigate intense
or disappointment.
Financial pressure: The holidays can be an expensive time, with
It's important to prioritize needs over wants and set clear boundaries.
the added strain of gifts, celebrations and other festivities, potentially emotions and rebalance the brain.
risking other necessities such as utilities, food, healthcare and housing. Create a budget to identify what funds can be attributed to celebrations
Substance use: For those facing substance use challenges, the and gifts, ensuring resources are allocated to critical needs. Understand
HSS is the world’s #1 in orthopedics as ranked by holidays can make the temptation of temporary relief from drugs or it’s OK to say “no” to relieve stress and prioritize mental, and overall,
alcohol seem irresistible, leading to a high-risk of relapse. wellness. If there are interpersonal challenges or concerns, keep comfort
Newsweek. Get back to what you love with HSS at NCH on Understanding the potential triggers is an important first step and and safety in mind and avoid gatherings that will negatively impact your
your team. Learn more at HSSatNCH.org. will help individuals and families identify the source and create a plan mental health.
for how to best manage their stress or emotions during the holiday While these coping skills can be implemented at the first sign of
season. It’s also important to recognize the physical, emotional and stress, it’s also important to know when to seek professional support.
behavioral symptoms of stress, which can include: DLC offers therapy and counseling services in person or virtually for
Our care is powered by philanthropy. We invite you • Changes in sleep and/or increased fatigue individuals and families. Additionally, DLC offers a variety of programs
• Changes in eating habits and resources for individuals and families in crisis.
to support our mission of expanding access to premier • Difficulty managing emotions, such as increased crying or anger outbursts The sooner strategies are implemented to overcome challenges, the
• Withdrawing from others and/or isolation more successful outcomes will be. During this joyous, and often stressful,
orthopedic services in our community by making a gift • Lack of enjoyment in activities or things a person once enjoyed time, it’s important for individuals to take care of themselves and focus
• Self harm or unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use on what truly matters.
today at NCHmd.org/donate, or call us at (239) 624-2000.
• Indications of suicide For more information about David Lawrence Centers for
Behavioral Health or our substance use programs,
visit DLCenters.org.
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