Staying Mentally Healthy Over Thanksgiving Break
Thanksgiving is coming up, and for many that means spending time with family, eating your weight in turkey, and watching football. Some people look forward to Thanksgiving…to the break that it provides, the time off work or school, and the time with loved ones. For others, Thanksgiving is dreaded. Whether one has issues with family, an unhealthy relationship with food, or simply feels overwhelmed when they go home, here are some simple yet effective ways to stay mentally healthy over Thanksgiving break.
Take Time For Yourself
Even if you’re looking forward to seeing your family, it’s totally okay to take some time for yourself. Family relationships can be complicated, and you shouldn’t feel guilty if you need a break. Watch a funny show on Netflix (recommendations), pick up a good book (recommendations), go for a walk, or do whatever you normally do to get away. Remember that it is normal and healthy to need a break. Do what is best for your mental health!
Set Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries are so important with family, but can often seem daunting. People typically don’t want to have to “stand up” to their family members. However, boundaries are healthy and can be subtle to implement. Oftentimes, people with unhealthy relationships with food feel uncomfortable when others make comments surrounding their eating habits. If someone does this, it’s okay to say “I’d rather you not make comments about my eating. It makes me uncomfortable.” If this feels too scary, making a small joke that lets the other person know you’re uncomfortable without outright saying it is another way to set a small boundary. You deserve to be heard.
Pick A Habit and Don’t Lose It
For me, and I’m sure others out there, Thanksgiving seems scary because it throws me out of my routine. When we get so used to living on our own and having our own time it’s tough to live on someone else’s schedule. Even if you can’t keep the exact same routine, pick one thing to do every day that reminds you of your normal day. Whether this is completing the New York Times Mini Crossword or simply making your bed every morning, choosing just one pattern to follow will help you feel more in control.
Going home for Thanksgiving brings mixed emotions for many. I am not a mental health professional nor do I think the ways I described above are the best or only ways to protect your mental health over Thanksgiving break, but they are habits that have definitely helped me. If your trepidations about going home for Thanksgiving cannot be aided with the above tips, please consider seeking the help of a professional. Thanksgiving is a holiday to enjoy, and hopefully these pieces of advice can help you have fun over the break.
