5 Ways to Manage Mental Health During the Holidays
Although we have been coping with the impacts of COVID-19 all year, it seems to hit a little harder during the holidays. Many businesses have been struggling to stay afloat, and there are people all over the world who are just trying to maintain their job. The holidays are about having fun, spending time with your loved ones and giving back to the community. Even though it can be overwhelming to think about, you just need to take it day-by-day. To help you through this season, here are some considerations to boost your mental health.
1. Appreciate the Small Things
For many people, the holidays are a time when you think about the things you are thankful for. It’s a time for you to reflect, watch those home videos and think back to your favorite distant memories. Even if this year isn’t how you planned it to be, keep an open mind this holiday season. Let yourself be open to making new memories with your loved ones, stay in the moment, and appreciate what you have.
2. Stick to a Routine
Through COVID-19, it has been a challenge finding a set routine with everything around us changing constantly. Try to find normalcy in your life by creating new, healthy routines and habits. If you like coffee, before you begin work for the day, take five minutes to yourself, sip on your coffee, and reflect. If you usually work out at the gym, instead, designate a specific time each day to workout in your garage or take a run. By keeping a set routine, it provides you with a little more comfort during these ever changing times.
3. Set Budgets
It is a lot of pressure buying gifts for your loved ones. However, do not overthink it. No matter what gift you give to your loved ones, it’s the thought that counts. Before you do any shopping, sit down, and craft an overall budget of how much you are able to spend in total and for each person. In addition to purchasing gifts, making gifts is always a great, heartfelt option if your budget is a little tight this year.
4. Create Realistic Expectations
There is no way that you will be on top of your A game every second of the day. Some days you may feel more motivation compared to others. On the days you have extra energy, try to do the tasks that need more thought and creativity and save the other tasks for later. Everyone has off days, and your mental health is important. Take time for yourself.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Say No
Even though you may think you are invincible, you can only do so much. The next time your family members ask you to do something, don’t feel obligated to have to say yes. Sometimes you just need some time to yourself to recover.
Contact South Coast Medical Group OC if You’re Feeling Sick
We want you to have a safe and healthy holiday season.
We want to make sure your health is optimized at all times. We also want to be mindful that COVID-19 still has a presence here in Southern California.
If you are not feeling well and would like to get the Sofia 2 Rapid COVID-19 test or receive the COVID-19 antibody test, please call us at (949) 360-1069 to schedule an appointment.
If you would like to set up an in-person or telemedicine visit, our hours of operation are:
Monday-Friday: 8:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.
The safety of our patients and staff is our top priority. We are located in Aliso Viejo, California, and we offer a wide range of services such as urgent and primary care, sports medicine, and x-rays. If you need help with any of these services, please contact us at (949) 389- 8968. We appreciate the trust our patients have in us and look forward to being of service to you.