We are quickly approaching the holiday season, and it can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Several health concerns are prevalent during the holidays and the winter season including insomnia, weight gain, spikes in blood pressure, and respiratory illnesses like Covid-19 and the flu.
We all know that the holidays can be challenging to our mental health and stress levels. If the song Blue Christmas really resonates with you this time of year, you’re not alone. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), three out of five persons feel their mental health is negatively impacted by the holidays.
The good news is there are ways to reduce your health risks, especially during the holiday season and into the new year.
Limit your expectation and reduce your stress.
Do your holiday expectations resemble something from a Hallmark holiday movie, and end up like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation? If so, it’s possible that your standards may be a tad too high. Give yourself a break. Skip the gatherings that you dread. Enjoy the season and keep your holidays simple. Your holiday celebrations don’t have to be perfect, and you don’t need to compare your holiday plans to others on social media.
Get plenty of sleep.
We know the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be exhausting so make sure to prioritize rest and relaxation. Your body needs it. Getting a good night’s sleep improves your brain performance, your mood, and your health. Poor sleep quality increases your risk for serious health problems and can negatively impact your mental health. If you do find yourself frazzled, take a walk, try yoga, journaling, or practicing mindfulness to reduce your stress.
Eat your fruits and veggies.
At this time of year, everywhere you look you’ll find cookies, cakes and candy canes (oh my). It can be challenging to not overindulge on unhealthy foods or drinks. People tend to drink more alcohol and eat more rich, sugary, or salty foods over the holidays and their portion sizes tend to grow. Before you know it, you’re gaining weight and feeling sluggish. This holiday season try to drink plenty of water and incorporate some healthier choices int
Keep moving.
Getting a little exercise in isn’t just good for your body, but it’s also good for your mind. Taking a brisk walk (weather permitting) is a great way to get some much-needed stress relief and boost of endorphins!
With that said, listen to your body and don’t overdo it. The cold weather can have unexpected effects on your body so make sure you talk to your doctor before doing anything extra strenuous like shoveling heavy snow. Stay hydrated and know the warning signs of a heart attack.
If you have any symptoms related to a heart attack, don’t ignore them!
Check on your friends and neighbors.
Keep in mind, not everyone has a calendar full of holiday plans. Elderly neighbors may be home alone over the holidays. Give them a call to make sure they are doing okay or stop in to say hello and spread some holiday cheer. They may not be able to get needed care if they are by themselves so lend a helping hand if you can.
Get vaccinated.
‘Tis the season for COVID-19, flu, pneumonia, colds, and RSV. Talk to your doctor, visit one of our FCPH immunization clinics or go to your local pharmacy to ensure you’re up to date on your immunizations.
If you are feeling sick, please stay home and help stop the spread of germs and infection. A simple head cold to you could be something much worse to someone who is more susceptible to illnesses. Don’t let FOMO get in the way of protecting the health of your family and friends.
Take time during the holiday season to care for yourself. It’s the best present that you can give not only to yourself but to those who care for you.