Thanksgiving and Mental Health

During the Thanksgiving holiday, many of us eagerly anticipate the joy of gathering with loved ones, savoring delicious meals, and expressing gratitude for the blessings in our lives. However, for some, the holiday season can also bring about stress, anxiety, and a range of emotions that impact mental well-being. But there are plenty of ways to prioritize mental health during Thanksgiving. By taking these tips to heart and always consulting medical professionals, you can develop a more mindful and fulfilling holiday experience.

Why is Thanksgiving So Tough on Mental Health?

On the one hand, holidays can wreak havoc on your mental and emotional health. Triggers with family, tensions from childhood, and even just being in one place with loved ones for a number of hours can bring up emotions. Oftentimes, the dynamic with our family touches deep places in our mental and emotional space—for better and for worse.

On the other hand, research shows that the practice of gratitude can actually improve your mental health. In addition to making you happier, gratitude practices can even help you build stronger relationships. So, while Thanksgiving can be tough, it can also provide some great tools—and the right strategy—to help improve your mood.

Thanksgiving’s Impact on Your Emotional Mood

Because Thanksgiving—and most holidays— are so busy, it can be easy to forget about ourselves. Out mental health is usually the last thing on our minds. Therefore, it’s essential to recognize and accept the array of emotions that may arise during the Thanksgiving holiday. For some, it’s a time of joy and celebration, while for others, it may stir up feelings of loneliness, grief, or stress. Other common emotions during the holidays include:

• Anger
• Jealousy
• Comfort
• Happiness
• Resentment

Give yourself permission to feel whatever emotions come up, and don’t judge yourself for experiencing them.

Practical Advice on Staying Healthy During the Holiday

Often, the pressure to create a perfect Thanksgiving celebration can lead to stress and anxiety. Set realistic expectations for yourself and the day. Remember that imperfections are part of the human experience, and it’s okay if things don’t go exactly as planned. Focus on creating meaningful moments rather than striving for perfection.

Boundaries are crucial for maintaining good mental health, especially during the holidays. If certain family dynamics or situations trigger stress, consider setting boundaries to protect your well-being. There are helpful resources to support you in working with your family in a recovery setting. Communicate your needs assertively but kindly, and prioritize self-care to ensure you have the emotional resilience to navigate challenging situations.

Intentional Gratitude and Yourself

While expressing gratitude is a central theme of Thanksgiving, it’s important to approach it with mindfulness. Take the time to reflect on the aspects of your life that you are genuinely grateful for, and express your appreciation in a way that feels authentic. This can be a powerful tool for shifting your focus towards positivity.

In the same way, don’t forget to prioritize self-care during the holidays. Whether it’s taking a break for a quiet walk, engaging in a favorite hobby, or simply setting aside time for relaxation, self-care is essential for maintaining mental well-being. Remember that taking care of yourself allows you to be more present and engaged with others.

Your Mental Health Checklist for Thanksgiving:

#1: Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings: The importance of acknowledging and validating your emotions as a crucial step in maintaining mental health during challenging times.

#2: Set Realistic Expectations: Setting realistic expectations to reduce holiday-related stress. Recognize that perfection is unattainable, and it’s okay to embrace imperfections.

#3: Establish Boundaries: The significance of setting healthy boundaries during the holidays to protect your mental well-being cannot be overstated. Communicate openly with others about your needs.

#4: Practice Gratitude Mindfully: You can practice gratitude mindfully by focusing on specific details and personal experiences, enhancing the positive impact on mental well-being.

#5: Prioritize Self-Care: Self-care is so important during the holidays, including activities such as exercise, proper sleep, and relaxation to manage stress effectively.

#6: Connect Virtually or In-Person: Think about safe holiday gatherings, including virtual options, to maintain social connections while prioritizing physical health.

What’s Mental Health’s Connection to Healthy Eating?

While it may be easy to overdo it during the holidays, try to take a step back and think about what you’re eating. Mindful eating during holiday meals can make a huge difference in your mental health and overall physical well-being. Paying attention to the sensory experience of eating can contribute to a healthier relationship with food.

One way to do this is to start planning ahead to reduce holiday-related stress. This includes organizing tasks, managing time effectively, and seeking support when needed. That way, you’re not stress eating and shooting yourself in the foot by all the sugar or fats you’re eating. These healthy habits can have a huge effect on how you feel mentally and emotionally during the Thanksgiving season.

Take Time to Relax and Get the Help You Need

One way to help your mental health is to incorporate relaxation techniques into your day, such as deep breathing or meditation, to manage stress and anxiety during the holiday season. This will improve your clarity of thought and mood when you need it the most.

Furthermore, being in a general state of easy will give you clarity to know when it’s the time to seek professional support if needed, especially during times of increased stress. Mental health professionals can provide guidance and assistance. Remember, individual experiences may vary, and it’s crucial to find strategies that work best for you. If you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals or support networks for assistance, such as the professionals at Pinnacle Recovery.

Thanksgiving is a time to come together, express gratitude, and create cherished memories. But keep in mind that your well-being is a priority, and taking intentional steps to care for your mental health will contribute to a more fulfilling and enjoyable Thanksgiving experience.