PATIENT of the MONTH Eleanor Holt AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
Spending the Holidays Alone? BOOST YOUR MOOD WITH THESE TIPS Many Americans spend the holidays alone every year, and the pandemic has only made it more difficult for people to see their loved ones, as travel has become more restricted and strenuous. If you’re one of these people who are spending their first holiday season alone this year, here are a few strategies you can try to make the situation a little easier. Don’t hold yourself to the usual standards. One of the best things about spending the holidays alone is that you can do things your way. You don’t have to worry about meeting everyone else’s standards. Instead, you only have to make yourself happy. Simply telling yourself that you are not going to have the usual holiday environment can slightly help, but redefining what the holiday means to you can remove a huge weight. Trying new things or looking toward the future are great ways to reduce the stress of spending the holidays alone. Keeping up with old traditions may remind you of what you’re missing out on, so it can greatly help to create your own traditions. Plan ahead. If you know in advance that you’re going to be spending the holidays alone, planning ahead can prevent negative feelings. While being spontaneous can sometimes keep things fresh, it could leave you with a feeling of hopelessness about what to do next. There’s no need for your list to be extensive or highly detailed, but even just planning to watch a movie or cook some of your favorite dishes can give you something to look forward to. Take care of yourself. Just because you’re not seeing people during the holidays does not mean you should forgo your basic needs. Stick to your regular hygiene habits and do not let them get away from you. The same goes for eating and sleeping. Staying clean, well-fed, and well- rested goes a long way toward improving your happiness. As with all mental health advice, what works for some does not work for everyone. Do what you think will work best for you and help you keep your thoughts happy.
“I personally have had heart issues starting with having a heart attack at the age of 40 and finally having a quadruple bypass 39 years later. With all of the new technology, medications, and cardiology, I fully support the American Heart Association for everything that they do.” -Eleanor The American Heart Association’s mission is to be a persistent advocate for the world to live longer and healthier lives. Eleanor is always such a positive presence in the clinic. We have been working together to decrease her knee pain and improve her balance, and she rises to any challenge. She has made so many improvements and brings such joy to the process. For her fortitude and determination, she is December’s Patient of the Month. Congratulations, Eleanor! We at Professional Physical Therapy would be honored to donate to the charity of your choice if you become our next Patient of the Month!
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