Mental Health Tips for the Holidays
(OCHN, Dec 3, 2023)
Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) encourages the community to prioritize mental health during the holidays and into the new year.
While the holidays can be a time of celebration and joy for many, it can also be a period of stress and sadness. This time may be particularly difficult for people living with mental health concerns, intellectual or developmental disabilities, and/or substance use disorder. A survey conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that 64% of individuals living with a mental illness reported that their condition worsened around the holidays.
Some tips for managing your mental health around the holidays, and all year round, can be found below:
- Notice your feelings: Remember that it is okay to feel unhappy during the holidays. Recognizing your feelings is the first step to addressing and nurturing them.
- Practice self-care: Treat yourself with kindness and avoid self-criticism. It’s also important to schedule time for yourself and activities that recharge your mind and body.
- Take care of your body: A big part of mental health is related to your physical health. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, eating balanced meals, exercising throughout the week, and getting enough sleep.
- Utilize your coping skills: Stress and sadness are a natural part of life. Practicing good coping skills can help alleviate overwhelming feelings. Take a walk, play with your pet, or even write in a journal. Research has also shown laughter can not only boost your immune system, but also ease pain, relax your body, and reduce stress.
- Develop a plan for when you are feeling sad, stressed, or lonely: This plan may include calling a friend or family member, going for a walk, engaging in an activity that brings joy, or watching a favorite movie. Having a plan can help ensure the difficult moments are more manageable. Seek additional supports when needed.
If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Non-emergency Access services can be reached at (248) 464-6363. For more tips on managing your mental health during the holiday season, click here. To learn more about OCHN, visit www.oaklandchn.org.
About OCHN
OCHN is contracted by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to lead a provider service network and manages care for approximately 29,000 Oakland County citizens at more than 400 service sites across the county. People who receive public behavioral health services through OCHN’s provider network include those who have an intellectual or developmental disability, mental health concerns, or substance use disorder. Most of these individuals have Medicaid insurance coverage.
OCHN’s goal is to ensure these individuals are aware of and have access to services and supports that will improve their health and quality of life, as well as ensure their engagement in full community participation. Its mission to “inspire hope, empower people, and strengthen communities” reflects an unyielding belief in a “Valuable System for Valued People.” Programs and supports provided by OCHN’s service network are available at www.oaklandchn.org.