TIPS TO MAINTAIN YOUR OPTIMAL MENTAL HEALTH DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON AND BEYOND
Setting Boundaries • Establish clear boundaries with loved ones regarding your feelings about discussing current events and politics, and your comfort level for visiting virtually and in person. • Do not be afraid to ask friends, family, or coworkers to change the subject if you feel uncomfortable discussing a topic, or if you just do not have energy for the conversation at a particular time. • Do not feel pressured to attend events or outings, or even visit someone’s home if it makes you feel uncomfortable. Politely decline or suggest an alternative that you are comfortable with. Maintaining Sobriety for Those in Recovery • Be aware of your typical triggers, but also realize that new triggers may develop under new circumstances. • Stick with your routine and plan to go to bed and eat meals at the same time every day. • Maintain connections. Keep in touch with support groups and individuals in your social network who champion your sobriety. For additional tips and resources, visit Syntero.org/Resources . About Syntero Syntero, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that advocates and supports the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities by providing professional, compassionate behavioral health and social services that adapt to the changing needs of the community. Syntero has served Central Ohio for more than 40 years and has offices in Dublin, Hilliard, Lewis Center and Northeast Columbus. Programs and services are offered throughout Franklin, Delaware and Morrow counties.
The holiday season and subsequent winter months can be a joyous time for some people, but it can also cause others to experience anxiety or feelings of loneliness. Even if you are someone who enjoys the winter months, certain events or situations can induce anxiety or lead to feelings of loneliness — even when surrounded by loved ones. Check out the following tips to learn how to manage anxiety, reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, set healthy boundaries and maintain sobriety for those in recovery. Reducing Feelings of Loneliness and Isolation • Plan activities throughout the day to reduce boredom and socialize with others, even if you go to an event alone. • Volunteer to boost your mood, socialize with others and help improve your community. • Exercise regularly to release endorphins that help boost your mood, relieve stress and reduce chronic pain. Managing Anxiety • Explore your feelings about your current situation rather focusing on what might happen in the future. • Take slow, deep breaths to help regulate your body’s physical reaction to stress; this also helps reduce anxiety. • To distract yourself from thoughts that make you anxious, perform a simple task like walking across the room to put an item in its place to help bring you back to the present moment. • Drink plenty of water and eat nutrient-rich foods instead of turning to sweets or alcohol, both of which can exacerbate anxious feelings. • Incorporate mindfulness — the practice of focusing on the present moment while acknowledging your thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations — into your daily routine.
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Healthy Winter/Spring 2022
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