Choosing Mental Health During the Holidays

Choosing Mental Health During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration—but it’s also one of the most overwhelming times of the year. Between the busy schedules, colder weather, and emotional weight that the season can bring, many of us struggle to maintain our mental health.

"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style."
— Maya Angelou

Whether it’s the temptation to overindulge, the grief that feels sharper during this season, or the sleepy sluggishness that comes with shorter days, it’s easy to fall off track. And if you’re feeling that way, you’re not alone.

But what if we chose differently? What if we decided to put our mental health first, even during the busiest season of the year?

My Holiday Struggle (Possibly, Yours Too?)

Last year, the holiday season swept me up in all its indulgent glory. I was eating more sweets than meals, grabbing sugary drinks to keep me going, and sinking into the comfort of naps that left me feeling groggier than before. It was a cycle of overindulgence and avoidance that felt impossible to break.

But as comforting as those habits seemed in the moment, they left me feeling disconnected and overwhelmed. I remember waking up one afternoon after yet another midday nap, my to-do list untouched and my body feeling heavy and sluggish. I couldn’t help but wonder,

How did I let it get to this point?

The Breakthrough Moment

That realization sparked a decision to do better—not in some grand or perfect way, but in a way that felt manageable. I decided to start with a 3-day detox, a reset to help me break free from the fog and reclaim my energy.

The detox itself was simple, but the impact was profound. It wasn’t just about what I was eating or drinking—it was about acknowledging the shift I needed to make and choosing to show up for myself. It reminded me that I had the power to create change, even during a season that feels so out of control.

Why Mental Health Matters During the Holidays

The holidays come with their own set of challenges, from endless temptations to grief, stress, and even seasonal sluggishness. Choosing to prioritize mental health doesn’t mean you won’t face these challenges—it means recognizing when they’re taking over and deciding to take back control.

For me, that choice to detox was more than a physical reset. It was an act of self-care and a way of telling myself, You deserve to feel good.

Steps to Prioritize Your Mental Health

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that small steps can lead to big changes. Here are some practical ways to start prioritizing your mental health:

• Declutter Your Space: Start small—clear off a surface, organize a drawer, or tidy one room. Physical clarity can bring mental peace.

• Acknowledge Your Feelings: Check in with yourself and ask, “What do I need right now?” Honor whatever answer comes up, whether it’s rest, connection, or time alone.

• Create a Daily Plan: Spend 10 minutes each morning planning your day. Focus on 2–3 tasks that matter most to you.

• Move Through Grief with Grace: Missing someone during the holidays is normal. Write a letter to them, light a candle in their honor, or share a memory with a trusted friend.

• Find Moments of Joy: Don’t underestimate the power of small joys—a favorite song, a warm drink, a walk outside and my personal favorite.. DANCE! 💃

Choosing Better

This holiday season, I’m committing to choosing better. That doesn’t mean being perfect, but it does mean being intentional. I’m choosing to tidy when I want to avoid, to journal when I want to shut down, and to care for myself even when it feels easier to let things slide.

If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed, I want to encourage you: take one small step today. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Every small action—whether it’s tidying your desk or taking five minutes to breathe—counts.

Let’s walk through this season together. Let’s choose mental health, even when it’s hard. Because when we prioritize our well-being, we create space for more peace, clarity, and joy—not just during the holidays, but all year long.

Quick Action! ⬇️

Feel inspired to take the first step? Check out the 3-day detox that has helped me feel refreshed and more in control: Link to 3-Day Detox.

FAQs

1. Why is it harder to maintain mental health during the holidays?
   The holidays often come with added stressors like family dynamics, financial pressures, and a busy schedule. Colder weather and shorter days can also contribute to seasonal changes in mood and energy levels.

2. What are simple ways to declutter during the holiday season?
   Start small—focus on one area at a time, like your desk, a drawer, or your kitchen counter. Even quick wins like donating unused items can create mental clarity.

3. How can I avoid overeating or over-drinking during the holidays?
   Set mindful boundaries for yourself, plan meals ahead, and prioritize nutrient-dense foods. Allow yourself grace but stay conscious of how overindulgence impacts your mood and energy.

4. What should I do if I feel overwhelmed or sad during the holidays?
   Take time to acknowledge your feelings without judgment. Journaling, reaching out to a friend, or setting aside moments for self-care can be great first steps.

5. How can I stay consistent with healthy routines in winter?
   Schedule your habits, even small ones like a daily walk or a 5-minute meditation. Keeping a written plan can serve as a gentle reminder and accountability.

6. What is the 3-day detox, and how can it help?
   A 3-day detox can reset your energy and help you feel more balanced by focusing on nourishing your body. I’ll share more details about the detox I use on my Instagram.