Avoiding the Holiday Blues

Make Your New Year Jolly & Bright

Once the glitz and glamour of the holiday season comes to an end, it isn't unusual to feel like something is missing. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways that you can help to keep your spirits bright into the New Year.

Try Journaling

While keeping a journal or diary may have been something you’ve done as a young child or teen, writing your thoughts down in a safe place is actually good for your mental health. Along with allowing you to express yourself in a judgement-free zone, writing down your thoughts and feelings has the following benefits:

• Reduces stress levels
• Helps you cope with distressing emotions
• Helps you work through negative thoughts and problems
• Encourages you to be more positive
• You’re able to track how you feel each day and pinpoint what may be bothering you

The next time you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, pick up a pen and start writing away for some relief.

Spend Time With Loved Ones

Once the holiday festivities are over, it's normal to experience distressing emotions like anxiety, loneliness, and depression. However, just because the holiday season has come to an end doesn't mean that you no longer have a reason to bring your loved ones together. Social interaction with friends and family can help to give your mental health a boost.

 

As a reminder, be sure to keep safety guidelines in mind when planning a social event or to gather with your loved ones. Here are some safety precautions to help keep you healthy and safe, as outlined by the CDC:

• Stay home if you've been exposed to COVID-19 or if you are showing COVID-19 symptoms.
• Host gatherings outdoors, when possible.
• If you must be indoors, use a well-ventilated space.
• Be sure to follow social distancing, maintaining 6 ft between guests.
• Avoid gestures like shaking hands, hugging, or elbow bumps.
• Wear your masks.
• Wash your hands frequently.

 

Some activities you can do with your friends and family that also prevalent the spread of germs include:

• Take a nature walk or hike.
• Decorate sidewalks with chalk.
• Play frisbee.
• Have a virtual gathering.
• Rollerblading
• Golfing
• Drive-in movies
• Picnics
• Campfires
• Outdoor barbeques

Try Meditating

Mindfulness meditation is another excellent way to reduce your stress levels and make yourself be present when you start to feel overwhelmed emotionally. Studies have shown that practicing meditation can help to reduce the symptoms associated with anxiety and depression.

The best part about mindfulness meditation is that it can be done just about anywhere. The next time you’re feeling uneasy, find a quiet space and give meditation a try.

Primary Care in Titusville

When it comes to supporting your health, it is important to find a family care doctor you can trust. The family doctors at Parrish Medical Group Family Medicine treat patients throughout all stages of your life, providing you with the insight, resources, and preventative care you need to live happily and healthily.

Whether you’re in need of a regular check-up or you have a health concern, contact Parrish Medical Group Family Medicine at 321-268-6111 to schedule your next visit.