As the weather is getting colder and the holidays are approaching, more to-dos, deadlines, and social pressures may arise. However, there are many ways to take care of your emotional wellbeing during the holiday season. Did you know, the winter sun in Norway doesn’t rise above the horizon, the days are short and dimly lit. So the Norwegians take the opportunity to create koselig, or a cozy way of living. This tradition means getting under a blanket with a cup of tea and enjoying your time with family and friends peacefully. And koselig must be working as Norwegians have astonishingly low rates of seasonal affective disorder and depression rates during the winter.

Protective Factors & Vulnerability Factors

As we approach the holidays, two factors may impact your mindset. Protective factors are things you have going for you that build strength and resilience like your confidence and intelligence. Vulnerability factors are those that hinder your ability to cope and can be both internal and external factors. The Norwegians create protective factors by appreciating their time with others, even in negative circumstances. They turn colder weather and darker days, possible vulnerability factors, into protective factors by embracing them and transforming them into positive memories. 

Thriving Through The Holidays

During the holidays, vulnerability factors may seem to exist at every turn. So how do you manage these? Here are a few ways to cope:

• Set firm limits for yourself: Decide how long you can stay at a party or your parents’ house, and stick to your plan. Or decide if you are even comfortable seeing family this year.

• Set a daily schedule: Give balance to your day. Make time for group activities as well as alone time. Ensure you get enough rest so you can be present emotionally and physically throughout day-to-day activities.

• Prep your coping skills: Preparing for the worst-case scenarios can help when tackling challenging work or family gatherings. Decide what coping strategies work for you, for potential situations that might increase stress.

• Make Your Own Meaning: Ask yourself what you appreciate most (like making your grandmother’s favorite recipe or going for a walk in your old neighborhood) and make sure that you remain present throughout.

• Effective environments: Choose people and places to spend most of your time, that add to your overall mental well-being, rather than deplete and challenge it. You can withstand difficulty for short periods of time, but prolonged periods of stress can quickly compromise your recovery.

• Take care of yourself: Take medication as prescribed; connect with others; rest; and find enjoyment in your activities.

Your health will benefit you and everyone around you, and you can praise yourself for these positive strategies. Not only will you have survived, but you will have thrived this holiday season.

Need some additional support as you move toward thriving this season? Click here.