Happy holidays! The holidays are coming up in a few short weeks, but it’s important to keep your mental health a priority. During the holidays, many people have full schedules, have recently lost a loved one, are experiencing the seasonal affective disorder, along with tons of other heavyweights on their back. While it is important to have an amazing holiday break, it’s just as important to take care of yourself too.

The first step in keeping up with self-care is to maintain your sleep schedule. While it is fun to stay up with friends and family throughout the holiday season, getting enough sleep is crucial to your well-being. Try to wake up and go to sleep at a consistent time, and if you have trouble doing this during the holidays, make sure to get back to it when you can. Getting enough sleep will keep you energized and able to keep up with the festivities.

Another tip to staying healthy during the season is to be around people, but also set boundaries. Being around friends and family can be rejuvenating, but having too many responsibilities can be overwhelming. Be open with communication and take breaks when you need them.

Eating healthy can be a challenge while your family is baking and cooking greasy and buttery foods day after day, however keeping up with your healthy lifestyle can make you feel energized and can boost your mood. You can even make it a group event by taking family walks or just keeping up with your gym routine. Getting enough sunlight is also very crucial to keeping your mood up, which helps with productivity.

Dealing with the loss of a family member, friend, or even a breakup between a significant other can be very challenging to deal with during a time centered around being with people. Take your time to grieve, and make sure to keep the people that you love close to you. Express your thankfulness for the people who stay by your side.

The main thing to remember is to do what makes you happy. If being with family stresses you out, set boundaries. If you are tired, make time in your day to rest and go to sleep earlier. Stay active and enjoy your holiday season!