As the holiday season approaches, many look forward to festive gatherings, delicious meals, and quality time with loved ones. However, it’s important to remember that the holiday season can be complex for mental health. For some, it’s a time filled with joy and connection; for others, it may bring feelings of loneliness, stress, and even grief. This time of year highlights the importance of maintaining and building social connections, which significantly support mental health and overall well-being.
Social Connection and Mental Health: Why It Matters
Research shows that strong social connections can improve mental health outcomes, particularly during high-stress times (CDC,2024). Engaging with others helps reduce feelings of isolation, which can be more pronounced during the holidays. Social connections provide emotional support, a sense of belonging, and, in some cases, a healthy distraction from stressors (Apa, 2024). These interactions can release hormones like oxytocin, helping lower stress and anxiety levels (Ozbay et al., 2007).
Challenges and Realities of the Holiday Season
For some individuals, the holidays may bring up difficult emotions. People who have experienced loss, struggle with mental health or addiction, and or who live far from family may struggle with feelings of loneliness, even when they’re surrounded by holiday festivities.
Tips for Staying Connected and Mentally Well During the Holidays
Here are some practical strategies to enhance social connections and support mental health during the holidays:
- Plan Ahead: Schedule time with friends, family, or supportive communities. Even small gatherings or virtual hangouts can help maintain a sense of connection.
- Reach Out to Others: If you’re feeling lonely or isolated, reaching out to someone can be challenging yet incredibly rewarding. Consider calling an old friend, volunteering, or joining a community event.
- Be Mindful of Your Well-being: Recognize and respect your limits. Prioritize activities that bring you joy and fulfillment rather than feeling pressured to participate in every holiday event.
- Practice Gratitude: Take time each day to reflect on things you’re grateful for. This practice can help shift your focus toward positivity and strengthen your resilience during challenging times.
- Seek Support if Needed: If the holiday season becomes overwhelming, reaching out to a mental health professional can provide guidance and support.
As we navigate the holiday season, let’s prioritize both our own mental health and the well-being of those around us by fostering meaningful connections. Taking time to connect, reflect, and support each other can make a lasting impact, not only during the holidays but throughout the year. At TTJ Group, we are committed to building stronger communities by offering training on mental health and substance use. Our programs equip individuals and organizations with the tools to support those facing mental health challenges, especially during difficult times. By working together, we can create a healthier, more connected world for everyone.
If you are in crisis, or you know someone who is, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or dial 911 in case of emergency.
- Call or text 988.
- Chat 988lifeline.org.
Resources for those in need
- https://mhanational.org/
- https://power2u.org/
- https://www.moodgym.com.au/
- https://sprc.org/
- https://www.samhsa.gov/
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). About Social Connectedness. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/about/index.html
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Manage stress with a strong support network. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/manage-social-support
Ozbay, F., Johnson, D. C., Dimoulas, E., Morgan, C. A. III, Charney, D., & Southwick, S. (2007). Social support and resilience to stress: From neurobiology to clinical practice. Psychiatry (Edgmont), 4(5), 35–40. PMCID: PMC2921311