December 23, 2024

Nurse Notes - Holiday Blues?

Many find the holidays a time of sadness and stress. A new study showed that 64% of people with mental illness report holidays make their conditions worse. But even without a diagnosis of a mental illness, sadness and stress are very real feelings.

Here are some suggestions to make the holidays less stressful and more joyful:

  • Accept your needs - be kind to yourself, put your own mental and physical well-being first. 
  • Write a gratitude list and offer thanks. 
  • Manage your time and don’t try to do too much - make a day to day schedule which will help ensure you don’t feel overwhelmed by everyday tasks or deadlines. 
  • Set boundaries. 
  • Practice relaxation - deep breathing, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation are all great ways to relax. 6. Exercise daily - walk outside, bike, join a dance class. 
  • Eat well 
  • Get enough sleep 
  • Get support - family, friends, counselor, support group.

The School Nurse program is a partnership with Holland Hospital to provide a school nurse in every HPS building.

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