Festive lights are twinkling, Christmas songs are playing everywhere you go, and the air is filled with anticipation as people everywhere prepare for the holiday season. For many, this time is a blend of excitement and nostalgia, but for others, it can bring a sense of worry or overwhelm, especially when juggling mental or behavioural health concerns.
The key to navigating this period is preparation. With the right approach and thoughtful planning, Christmas can be a time of contentment and happiness and managing mental health needs doesn’t have to get in the way of that. With this in mind, we’ve put together this guide to help you prepare effectively, ensuring that your festive season goes precisely how you want it to.
Medication Management
Though the holiday season brings a pause for many, including pharmacists and doctors, your health journey doesn’t stop, so ensuring continuous well-being is key. It’s essential to check and organise your medication well in advance, ensuring you have enough to last through the holiday period.
Here are a few tips to help keep track of your medication schedules amidst the holiday cheer:
- Create a Medication Calendar: Amidst the festive activities, it’s easy to lose track of time, and a calendar dedicated to your medication schedule can be an enormous help. Mark your doses and set reminders on your phone so you don’t forget.
- Early Prescription Refills: Contact your healthcare provider or pharmacy to ensure you have enough medication to cover the holiday period, and plan ahead for prescription refills to avoid the last-minute rush. However, if you’ve had a difficult relationship with your meds at some point, it’s wise to speak to someone in your support circle first, as building up a surplus might not be wise. If this is something you’re worried about, consider leaving your meds with a trusted friend or support worker who can dispense them without putting you at risk.
- Check Pharmacy Schedules: It’s important to check holiday opening hours if you rely on daily pharmacy pick-ups. Knowing the pharmacy schedule in advance helps you plan accordingly and avoid any unexpected closures. Make sure you get up-to-date information, as online schedules can sometimes be outdated or subject to change. Your peace of mind is worth a five-minute phone call!
- Have a Backup Plan: In case of unforeseen closures or medication shortages, have a backup plan. Know an alternative pharmacy or a contact number for emergency refills.
Emergency Preparedness
During the holiday festivities, it’s essential to have a plan for health-related emergencies. This goes beyond knowing the operating hours of clinics and pharmacies, and includes being prepared for unforeseen medical situations:
- Mental Health and Substance Use Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of essential contacts, including your mental health care provider, local mental health crisis services, and mutual aid support groups. These contacts should be easily accessible and known to your network, and it’s a good idea to have an electronic copy saved somewhere if you’re travelling a lot during the holidays.
- Recognise Trigger Signs: Understand and be alert to the signs that may indicate a mental health crisis or a relapse. This awareness is key in seeking timely help.
- Plan with Support Network: Discuss and share an emergency plan with friends, family, or caregivers who understand your mental and behavioural health history – they should know how to respond effectively in case of a crisis.
- Carry a Personalized Crisis Card: Carry a crisis card that contains brief information about your condition, necessary contacts, and any instructions that can assist in an emergency.
- Discuss Holiday Schedules Early: Initiate conversations with your care team about their availability during the holidays. Understanding their schedules in advance helps in planning your care effectively during this period. This might include talking about your daily routine, medication times, and any specific mental health or substance use concerns.
Staying Healthy and Safe
During the holidays, it’s important to focus on holistic well-being and respecting your body’s needs while enjoying the festive spirit. The holidays can often bring about situations that trigger eating disorder behaviours, from communal meals to conversations about dieting and body image. Be mindful of these triggers and have a plan in place, whether it’s setting boundaries in communications or having a support person to reach out to.
Additionally, be mindful of your mental well-being and pay attention to how you feel. The holidays can be overwhelming, so ensure you take time for relaxation and self-care. If you’re in therapy, continue with your regular sessions as much as possible, and if alcohol has been a challenge in the past, it’s okay to set boundaries. Have a plan in place for handling situations where alcohol is present, and don’t hesitate to lean on supportive friends or family. If you’re travelling somewhere, check if there are mutual aid meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous local to you. If not, there are a range of online options for you to choose from.
If certain family members or social situations are known triggers for your mental health, remember it’s okay to choose not to participate. Prioritising your mental health isn’t selfish; it’s a necessary and kind act for yourself. Those who care about you will understand the importance of maintaining your well-being.
Reach Out Today
If the holiday season feels overwhelming, or if you’re seeking ways to manage mental health, eating disorders, or substance use during this time, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Assured Healthcare and Wellness, we understand the unique challenges that come with the holidays. Contact us today to explore personalised support and care options that respect your journey and help you celebrate the season in a way that prioritises your well-being.
