By Savannah Hess
Hello everyone! I hope you had an enchanting, amazing Halloween. Today I wanted to discuss something that’s personal. And with the holidays such as Christmas and Thanksgiving coming up, I figured now would be a perfect time. Though Thanksgiving and Christmas bring with it merriment, festivities, and of course gratitude (yeah I never would’ve guessed on that one), for many people, the holidays can bring a bit of stress. So let’s chat about it. Here are a few ways you can work on your mental health during the holiday season.
The first one I have is to, in the words of Parks and Recreation, “treat yo self.” What does it mean to treat yourself? It means if you’re having a day where you’re struggling: feeling depressed, extra anxious, whatever, do something for you. Do something that makes you feel relaxed, calm, or joyful. I don’t often treat myself, but a little while ago, early October to be exact, I did. I was feeling a bit miserable, and so I decided to buy the box set of a show I’d been wanting to see for a long time. Yes, before you ask, it was Community. I love comedy shows, and this show I’d been wanting to see for ages. Another thing I like to do to treat myself is rewatch a favorite movie. Not too long ago, one summer’s day, I rewatched the classic Ghibli film Spirited Away. When I treat myself, it reminds me of how much I cherish myself. And everyone needs to value themselves around the holidays.
My second tip is to volunteer. I aspire in my daily life to make a difference, to improve the world. If not the world than the life of one person. I volunteer now whenever I can. I started volunteering for the Cox Science Center and Aquarium in July of 2022, and I still absolutely adore it. Everyone I’ve been able to meet has been so kind and friendly. Plus, I’m a science nerd! Some other volunteering opportunities I’ve had are with the Greenacres Historical Society and the Palm Beach County Library System. I’ve volunteered with the Greenacres Historical society since June of 2023, and been able to look at censuses, sort through photos, among other things. For someone who’s considering history as a backup major, it’s a fantastic experience. I do feel like a time traveler, bringing the past back to life. Finally..the library! I’m a bibliophile, and it’s incredible learning how to sort books. I’ve already been able to learn so much. I feel as if I’m able to be part of an ever flowing river of knowledge, one that is becoming deeper every moment. Volunteering in general is a delightful way to help others, and in the end makes you feel good. And, according to www.ableto.com, it helps to lower stress levels and fight depression.
Anyway, that’s all I have for you this month. Make sure to take it easy and to practice gratitude every day. See you all soon!