The holidays are in full swing and the classic signs of the season are all around us: Bustling shoppers, festive treats, bright lights and – all too often – rising blood pressure. As much fun as this time of year is, it can also be a stressful time, with a myriad of social and family obligations to meet. For many LGBT people, the holidays are especially difficult. Some are completely estranged from their families due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Others are subject to abuse from homophobic or transphobic relatives. And those making the trek to unsupportive environments may find themselves forced to spend their holidays in the closet.
In times of stress, most of us turn to our support networks – friends, loved ones, community groups, and mental health providers. During the holidays, however, these networks aren’t always available. This is when embracing the concept of self-care is most important.
Self-care can refer to any action taken to improve one’s physical, mental, or emotional health. It can mean long-term lifestyle changes, like joining a gym, quitting smoking, taking up a fun new hobby, or learning how to make healthy meals. Self-care can also be as simple as kicking back with a cup of cocoa and a favorite movie. Basically, self-care is about giving yourself a break.
Our society too often views self-care as indulgent and therefore unnecessary, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Staying in tune with your own needs allows you to be the best version of yourself possible – which is good for everyone around you, too! Think of it this way: Airplane emergency instructions always emphasize that you should secure your own oxygen mask before trying to assist those around you. Self-care is an everyday version of that oxygen mask. When you remember to take care of yourself, you’re in good shape to take care of your community.
There are a number of self-care assessment tools available to suggest action items and measure how well you’re currently practicing self-care. Here are a few more holiday-specific self-care tips to keep in mind over the next few weeks:
Allow yourself to say ‘no’ – guilt-free. The Earth will keep turning, whether or not you accept every single holiday party invite. Forcing yourself to attend a dozen social gatherings that you don’t really have the time or energy for will just result in more seasonal burnout. If you need a night in to catch your breath, take one!
Steer clear of toxic environments. Do you dread visiting those certain relatives who always have something hateful to say? It’s perfectly alright to bow out. Staying away from people and situations that are hostile or emotionally-distressing is a key component of self-care.
Indulge responsibly. There are rich foods and heavy drinks aplenty this time of year. It’s OK to indulge, but make sure to listen to your body to avoid getting ill. And please, drink responsibly.
Make your own holiday family. If your biological family is absent, estranged, or unsupportive, know that you’re not the only one. Chances are good that there are friends, acquaintances, or community members in the same boat who would also love some affirming company. Organize a get together with this “chosen family” – it might even become a holiday tradition!
Do you have any other self-care tips for the season or all year long? Feel free to share them in the comments section below. From our family to yours, we wish you happy and healthy holidays!
Want to receive email updates about what’s happening at Fenway Health? Sign up here.
