An Electronic Mental Health Newsletter from Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D., P.A. & Associates Volume 18, Number 12
This month’s e-Letter is about actually enjoying the holiday season. While the demands upon us can be overwhelming, the more we worry, the less we enjoy. This is a time for us to celebrate, wish each other good tidings, and appreciate what we have.
Here are 10 suggestions that we think will ensure you find this holiday season joyful, meaningful, and fulfilling.
1. Avoid overcommitting yourself.
You don’t have to do everything or please everybody. Set limits. Do the things you really want to do, not what you have to do.
2. Decorate your home inside and out.
Bring the holiday spirit into your home and remind yourself of the importance of whichever holiday you celebrate. Listen to holiday music, prepare holiday foods, and send best wishes to those whom you care about.
3. Limit your time on social media and emails.
Personal connections mean a lot more than what you can see on a screen. Focus more on being with family and friends and actually interacting with them.
4. Refuse to engage in conflict with family or friends.
Everyone has conflict and avoiding it can be difficult. Angry or hurt feelings can ruin the holidays so be more understanding and tolerant of others. Agree to disagree.
5. Do not overeat.
Eat in moderation. It’s easy to put on a few pounds that you will eventually regret. Watch how much you eat and make sure to exercise or at least walk.
6. Practice prevention: Avoid getting sick and ruining the holidays.
Keep a distance from people who are coughing or have colds. Get enough rest, wash your hands frequently, and most importantly, keep yourself hydrated.
7. Express gratitude by giving to others.
Give what you can afford to the needy and those less fortunate. Volunteer to help out at charities and social service organizations. Your reward will be good feelings.
8. Gift yourself.
You matter. Treat yourself nicely and do something for yourself you wouldn’t ordinarily do. Buy yourself something that you would like to have. Schedule a massage, facial, or a spa day.
9. Make time to relax: go to the beach, the coffee shop, or the park.
Take this time for yourself and disconnect from the usual hectic world. Silence your phone and find a good book to read, puzzle to do, or listen to music.
10. Create a new family holiday ritual.
Make the holidays special by playing a game, writing notes or cards to others, doing an arts and crafts project, telling stories, or sharing past memories.
We wish you the happiest of holidays, peace, and exceptional mental health in 2025…
Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D.
Camille Benito, Psy.D.
Joanna Tsikis, Ph.D.
Stacey Mednick, LCSW
Julie Gordon, LCSW
Susan Flax, Psy.S.
Meredith Kimmel, PCC
Jillian Baer
WE PRACTICE BOTH IN-OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH; WE CAN HELP!
Call us at 954 755-2885 or email us at [email protected]
Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D. P.A. and Associates
5551 N University Drive, Suite 202
Coral Springs FL 33067
As always, we are interested in your thoughts. If you would like to respond to this e-Letter, reply or email your comments to [email protected] and we will publish them next month.
Till January 2025…
The information provided in this electronic newsletter is not a substitute for professional treatment. It is the opinions of the writers and is provided solely for educational purposes. For mental health care, seek a qualified professional.
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Copyright © 2024 by Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D. P.A. and Associates.
