The holidays can be stressful for everyone, but they’re particularly challenging for individuals with depression, recovering from addiction, or grieving for a lost loved one. To maintain your sobriety and mental health during the holidays, it’s important to adopt a one day at a time philosophy, and fill each day with something good. Here are some easy methods professional mental health services recommend to foster a positive outlook as we approach Christmas, Hanukah, and New Year’s.

Mental Health Service Methods for Maintaining Your Outlook

Get Sleep, But Not Too Much

Adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep for optimal health. Don’t allow yourself to oversleep or climb back into bed after you’ve woken up in the morning. Doing so will leave you feeling groggy and unmotivated.

2. Eat a Healthy Breakfast

When you’re depressed or recovering from addiction, eating regular meals can be difficult. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and eating foods with protein, fiber, and fruit will help you feel better.

3. Don’t Avoid Contact

Whether you’re at work or need to visit the supermarket, interact with the people you encounter. Though it might be tempting, don’t avoid your friends or family. Participate in conversations if they call — and don’t be afraid to initiate contact yourself.

4. Set One Goal & Accomplish It

Set one goal for your day, no matter how small it is, and work toward it. Go to the grocery store, check your mail, or clean one section of a room. Conquering even small tasks can be encouraging.

5. Cook Dinner

Cooking can be a rewarding and healthy experience, even if it’s only for yourself. It doesn’t have to be an elaborate meal either. Merely think healthy. Healthy foods and strong mental health go hand in hand.

6. Take a Walk

After dinner, get outside for some fresh air and take a short walk. Whether you circle the block or live near a nature trail, being outside can rejuvenate your mindset.

7. Meditate Before Bed

Think about your week and reflect on the positive things that have happened, not the bad. Saying affirmations can also improve your mood. 

If you find yourself struggling this holiday season, the counselors at The LCADA Way in Lorain & Medina County OH, can help. As specialists in drug abuse and addiction issues, they use compassion and understanding to help people through difficult times safely and confidentially. Call (440) 989-4900 or visit them online to view a comprehensive list of their mental health services.