Boosting Mental Health During the COVID-19 Holidays

Credit: Ekaterina Bolovtsova

The holiday season is meant to be joyful. Yet even at the best of times, people’s mental health can suffer during Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa and other holiday celebrations as they experience sadness, isolation and grief. And following 10 months of isolation and social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many more will be struggling with mental health challenges this year.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has suggested ways to modify holiday gatherings, U.S. President-elect Joe Biden’s coronavirus advisor, Michael Osterholm, has said that “there is not a safe Christmas party in this country right now.” For those feeling isolated, depressed or otherwise affected this holiday season, here are a few ways to boost your mental health as well as that of others:

Engage in self-care: Missing out on gift exchanges, communal meals and stories around the fire can be challenging. Meanwhile, many people are mourning the recent deaths of loved ones. But being alone doesn’t have to be lonely. Take a break from the Internet and, instead, spend some time pampering yourself with hot baths, candles or your favorite music. Have a leisurely cup of tea while watching the snow fall, journaling or contemplating a meaningful poem. What would you like to give yourself this season?

Find new ways of connecting: Hugs may still be out of the question, but there are many other ways to demonstrate love and affection. Join others in opening gifts over Zoom or engage in Christmas caroling over the phone. Make small gifts, wrap them, and leave them around the neighborhood for strangers to find. Visit a loved one’s yard late at night, and leave them a surprise to find in the morning: snow angels, a lighted display, or a snowman holding a personalized message. Read holiday stories to nieces, nephews or grandchildren over Zoom or play Christmas music on your instrument at a local park. Everybody has their own ideas and talents to share.

Using your talents to cheer others will boost your own spirits, too.
Credit: Musa Ortaç

Do something for others: Many others are struggling this season, and taking action to support their mental health has the added bonus of lifting your own spirits. The Alzheimer’s Association suggests dropping off care packages for older adults or organizing a “holiday parade” in which loved ones can walk or drive by the person’s home with signs and festive decorations. Meanwhile, grassroots efforts such as Intellihelp, a Facebook group connecting those in need of basic goods with strangers who can fill their shopping list, offer the opportunity to assist others in a practical way. Something as simple as writing a thoughtful, handmade card for an elderly neighbor or the healthcare workers at your local hospital can work wonders.

While the lack of traditional holiday gatherings makes it seem as though there’s little to celebrate this holiday season, there are a multitude of ways to find beauty, connection and joy. Take just one small action to boost your mental health or that of others, and you will witness the rewards.