EAP 148: Holiday Mental Health During COVID-19

Published: Nov. 24, 2020, 12:53 a.m.

b'Our topic on this episode of the Early Accountability Podcast is being aware of the impacts that the holidays can have on mental health. This time of year can be characterized by stress, fatigue, expectations, travel exhaustion, financial strains, isolation, grief, and difficult relationships and interactions with loved ones, and the impacts of COVID-19 on our plans this season only escalate these feelings. Now \\u2013 more than ever \\u2013 it is important to be self-aware and take proactive steps to keep yourself happy, reduce stress, and take care of your mental health.
Kimi outlines 5 things to try this season to make the most of this \\u201cdifferent\\u201d holiday season:

1.Allow yourself to feel \\u2013 Give yourself permission to be where you are right now.

2.Resist the temptation to give into social pressures \\u2013 For the health of yourself and others, say \\u201cno\\u201d to events and gatherings that you don\\u2019t feel comfortable attending.

3.Enjoy the outdoors \\u2013 Being outside is a great way to spend time with others in a socially distanced setting and to have a chance to unplug and get grounded in the serenity of nature.

4.Take care of your health \\u2013 Get plenty of rest and exercise and be conscious of your food and beverage consumption.

5.Find new traditions \\u2013 If you are not able to spend time in person with your loved ones, take advantage of technology that can help you stay connected: Zoom and Facetime, watching a Netflix Party together, and playing a game over the House Party app are great resources!
Above all, know yourself and do what you think is best for yourself and others. Know that this season will not be normal, but do your best to make the most of it and check in with those around you to make sure everyone is doing ok.

Topics Covered in this Episode:
\\u2022Feelings around the holidays
\\u2022Mental health
\\u2022Isolation
\\u2022Depression
\\u2022COVID-19

National Suicide Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)'