The holidays are that time of the year when everyone seems happy and carefree. Family visits, friends gather, and there are parties from the community to the conference room. It is a festive time, whether you are in a festive mood or not. The holidays have their own disorder, SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder, which happens cyclically for some due to the absence of light. For others, the stress of continuous festivities can simply become overwhelming. I reached out to Monique Bell, who chairs the Advocacy arm of the NAMI Georgia affiliate serving Henry and Fayette counties. NAMI stands for the National Alliance On Mental Illness.
I asked why folks are overwhelmed during the holidays, and if there are some things they can do in preparation for the onslaught of gaiety that many others enjoy. She mentioned establishing boundaries early around events that you attend, explaining that it is due to your health. She goes on to share that SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder, is real, and we should respect some in our community, will need limits.
Many ways that people cope with stress are not available during the holidays. I practice at a yoga studio that offers one hot yoga class on Thanksgiving morning. I asked Bell if exercise or meditation could make a difference. She explained that the release of endorphins from these activities before a gathering can reduce stress and anxiety. Bell goes on to mention that sleep affects everything you do, and making sure you get enough will also make a big difference in the way you handle anxiety and stress. She recommends getting between 8 - 10 hours of sleep and reminds us that you cannot “make up” sleep.
Anxiety is the most common mental health challenge that is experienced. Bell shares a few tools to manage slight anxiety. PRACTICING so that you are prepared. BREATHING techniques, SUNSHINE, going outside for a few minutes, and SENSORY TOOLS that you might touch or squeeze.
Bell came to work in the mental health field after twenty-six years as a massage therapist, where she could see the relationship between the spirit, mind, and body. She went to school and is a Nurse Practitioner in Psychology. As head of the advocacy chair for NAMI, Henry, Fayette County, she speaks about legislation recently passed to encourage people to enter the healthcare profession. She also speaks about the NAMI ENDING THE SILENCE initiative.