Health For The Holidays
Despite the importance highlighted about mental health in recent years, it is still a struggle to prioritize mental health. During the holidays, it becomes even more important because while it can be a joyous time of year-it can equally become such a hectic time of year. Highlighting mental health during the holidays helps remind us of the need for balance, rest, and emotional care.
How to prioritize your mental health in the midst of physical medical issues.
New or worsening health issues can be taxing at any time of year, but they can be more heightened during the hustle and bustle of the holiday. Depression, anxiety, defeat, and loneliness. There is truth behind the mind-body connection. Positive thoughts are good for promoting good healing. This is, of course, easier said than done. If you do not know where to get started, here are some quick ideas:
- Focus on the positive: Think about three good things in your life. While this might even still be hard to come up with during a tough time (if you are reading this, you are alive-so there is a start for #1).
- Spend time with a loved one: Try to spend at least 10 minutes a day talking or spending time with a friend or family member. Even if you are not up to talking, just having someone to sit next to you-or message via texts, can help your mood. If you are in the hospital and don’t have a friend to talk to, take a few minutes to talk to a nurse, aide, or even volunteer for a few minutes. If you enjoy pets, many facilities have a therapy dog that can come visit.
- Get the rest you need. Your brain and body need rest to help you think and function clearly. Insomnia often accompanies health issues and worry. As your medical provider, if you need assistance with falling asleep at night or maintaining a good night’s rest. Waking up rested can make a world of difference.
Decrease Your Workload
When we talk about workload, I don’t necessarily mean your “job”. Even if you do not work, there is still a list of tasks that need to be done. Caring for a home, caring for children, or other loved ones. Even caring for yourself is a chore. With a medical issue, the “to-do-list” grows. Billing issues, medical appointments, testes, new medications, travel arrangements, including driving to appointments, and taking care of pets. The list goes on and on. All this can quickly take a toll on your mental health.
Get The Help You Need
Get the help you need. If you feel that your mental health is not right, there are many resources available for you. Speaking to a therapist or a behavioral health specialist can offer valuable insight and management recommendations.
Private Patient Advocate
A private patient advocate can tackle your workload and help give you more time for yourself, more time to heal, and a more enjoyable quality of life. I recommended seeking an experienced private patient advocate who best fits your needs. With a private patient advocate, you never have to feel alone, and you have more time to focus on what is important to you.
Contact Pathway Patient Advocates today; we are ready to help with your health for the holidays.
Pathway Patient Advocates