For those who suffer mental health issues and those who do not alike, the holidays can be an overwhelming time. There is so much going on, people to see, things to do, sometimes people forget to take care of themselves. It is important to keep tabs on your emotional well-being as well as your personal safety this holiday season.
To help with emotional distress during the holidays, here are a few tips. Make sure to stick to a normal day to day schedule as well as sleep schedule as best you can. This may be difficult with the days seeming shorter due to lack of sun, but make sure you take advantage of that sun time while it’s there! You should take time to be alone at times, but not all the time too. In addition, try to keep your food and drink intake consistent with the rest of the year. Over-eating can make you feel even worse if you’re already not feeling too great. When it comes to drinking, do not drink alcohol even if your are just feeling a little bit sad. Listen to music to keep your mood elevated. If you are feeling any distress this holiday season and live in the NW Indiana or Chicago area, do not hesitate to give us a call at Olive Branch Counseling Associates. We are located at 6819 W. 167th Street, Tinley Park, Illinois and can be reached at (708) 633-8000.
On top of trying to keep your mind a safe space, it is important to keep your home safe as well. Here are some ways you can do that:
- Don’t display gifts in windows.
- Don’t throw away packaging for expensive items until trash pick-up, and make sure it is discreet.
- Keep doors and windows locked.
- Make sure shades and curtains are closed, whether you are at home or away.
- If you leave your house, consider leaving on a light or perhaps a television or radio.
- Try an automatic timer for lights, or have a neighbor or friend turn them on and off for you if you are out of town.
- While you are out of town, have a neighbor or friend collect your mail and newspaper, or have the post office hold it for you until you return.
- Make sure to keep a home inventory with pictures, a description, and serial numbers of expensive items in case of a burglary for insurance claims.
- If you leave the house to go shopping, limit the amount of cash you carry and try to use a card or checks. Also, park in a well lit area and make sure your windows are up before you lock your doors. Make sure to carry a sturdy purse that you can keep close to your body.
These are just a few of the many ways that you can keep yourself mentally and physically secure during the holiday season, and even year round. Make sure to share your insight with friends and family to ensure that every one has a happy and safe holiday season!
-Olive Branch Dove
CounselingMatters.live 
Leave a Reply