The holiday season is filled with peace and happiness, and sharing time with friends and family. For many, this is a time where family and friends get together and reflect on the birth of Christ, while preparing for the new year. These events can cause those with behavioral health concerns to exacerbate. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) (2023), over 64% of individuals mental health concerns worsen. I have provided some tips on how to improve mental wellness during the holiday season.

1. Surround yourself with family and friends who are closest to you.

2. Ensure you feel your best both physically and emotionally.

3. Allow yourself to welcome in self-care practices.

4. Ensure to organize activities to your liking.

5. Engage in physical activity and healthy meal planning.

6. Do some volunteer work, it will definitely help you to feel better.

7. Avoid substance use/abuse.

8. Practice several ways to be thankful.

9. Be mindful of who you are as a person, and ask for what you want and need.

National Alliance of Mental Illness. (2023). Maintaining mental health during the holiday season. Retrieved on December 16, 2023 from https://namica.org/blog/handli...-the-holiday-season/