There are so many things to look forward to during the winter months: family gatherings, good food, and spending time with loved ones. But let’s be real — the holidays are also one of the most stressful times of the year.
The main culprit of this stress is often the pressure parents and caregivers put on themselves to create the 'perfect' holiday experience. It’s important to recognize when we are setting up unreasonable expectations for ourselves and focus instead on spending quality time with those we love most.
Below are some tips from Macaroni KID Premiere Site Sponsor, AllHealth Network, to have a more mindful holiday season:
Keep your routine
Whether you enjoy your morning routine on the porch with tea, or nighttime routine of affirmations and meditation, find a way to continue with your routines during the holidays. It will help you feel calmer and hopefully more confident to tackle the day ahead.
Identify your stressors
If you can pinpoint the aspects of the season that cause the most stress for you, you can better prepare for it and likely alleviate some stress for future-you. Plan for how you can make it easier for yourself and your family, even if it’s just something small.
Maintain connection with your inner circle
While you may be a busy-bee between November and January, make sure to leave room for the people that fill your cup the most. Whether it be a friend, spouse, sibling, or someone else, lean on your inner circle even more this time of year.
Don’t underestimate a good night’s sleep
Sleep is sometimes the first thing a parent or caregiver forgoes when the to-do list is overwhelming. No one is the best version of themselves when they are running on a few hours of sleep. Prioritize quality sleep.
Get outside
The sun is more elusive this time of year. It is important to continue to get outside for sunlight and fresh air, even in the wintertime. You could also sit by an open window if the weather allows for it.
This time of year can be especially difficult for some. If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to AllHealth Network.
- Call our Crisis Hotline (303) 730-3303
- Visit our Walk-In Center at 6509 S Santa Fe Drive, Littleton, CO, 80120
To learn more about the services available for you and your family, call AllHealth Network at (303) 730-8858 or visit our website.
About AllHealth Network, Premiere Site Sponsor of Macaroni KID Highlands Ranch-Parker-Castle Rock-Lone Tree
AllHealth Network is a trusted family of mental health and substance use providers. Our compassionate clinicians (counselors, therapists, social workers, psychiatrists, case managers, nurses) offer a consistent model of clinical excellence with a focus on individualized goals for growth and recovery. Whether this is one’s first call to seek services, a mental health emergency, or if someone has been a client with us for years, ALL of our providers are here to serve with an open heart and mind TOGETHER. AllHealth Network has over 250 clinical providers and more than 30 psychiatrists and nurse practitioners. Beyond our 12 physical locations, our teams provide services in schools, detention centers, community centers, and other community locations throughout Arapahoe County, Douglas County, and the greater Denver Metro region.
Macaroni KID Highlands Ranch-Parker-Castle Rock-Lone Tree is thankful for AllHealth Network's generosity, which keeps our publication free for our readers.
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