Holiday Celebration
As 2021 draws to a close there is much to celebrate. Even though you may be thinking “there is nothing to celebrate Mark!” the holiday season is traditionally a time to reflect on the year, (good, bad or indifferent). You may have noticed negativity has been more prevalent these last few months, and rightfully so as we are still immersed in a global pandemic.
Our politicians and health organizations have done their best to build solutions, but even so, tragedies have occurred, and loss has been realized as outcomes for many. Some have struggled with addiction, job loss, loss of a loved one or suffered the effects of COVID itself. The heaviness that surrounds us may have people feeling hopeless or helpless. Avoidance, negativity and burying the struggle away will not make things better nor will these feelings just go away.
Times like these require resilience, hope, a fresh start and a believing attitude. I know, easier said than done, however by talking about your situation and getting support you find that you are able to rebalance, give rise to hopefulness and increase your mental wellbeing.
Let’s move on to the good stuff!
Governments, social agencies, individuals all stepped up their games to provide extended services in our communities. Front line workers like first responders, grocery store clerk, bankers, store owners, restaurants and the like pivoted to provide a sense of normalcy in a world where abnormal became the norm. The goodness that occurred throughout the year is something we should all reflect on, what was it for you? Maybe someone gave you a smile so big from behind their mask that you could see it in their eyes, perhaps it was the person in front of you in line paying for your order or maybe it was a phone call you received at a time when you were feeling low.
Maybe you stepped up personally by remaining physically healthy (or started a new exercise regime), maybe you ate better or sought out peer support or counselling. There were also more subtle ways in which people contributed, being kinder themselves, learning that it was okay not to be okay, building on small wins, eating, sleeping, getting dressed each day. No matter what your circumstance, be proud that you contributed to increasing mental wellness.
Whether you celebrate the holiday season with others or alone, remain focused on the positives that are present or on the horizon, this perspective will go along way to carrying you through.
Seeking professional help, having a positive attitude, putting yourself first, continued self care, these are all ways to elevate your mood, give you hope and support mental wellness. I wish you all a very Happy Holiday Season.
Mark Walter is the Recovery Trainer at Canadian Mental Health Association, Alberta Southeast Region and can be reached at or . To find out more about CMHA programs and/or events visit www.cmha-aser.ca. If you are in crisis, call the Distress Centre at (403) .