Holidays can be tough. Especially for those of us who may be spending it with family we’d rather not be with or for those of us dealing with mental illness. So, I’ve tried to compile a list of helpful tips that have worked for me and also advice others have given me:

1. You don’t have to be happy. Holidays can make you feel like you should be decking the halls and singing Christmas carols or whatever. But…
2. Don’t do anything you don’t want to do, because
3. Boundaries aren’t selfish. They are self-care. Holidays can be overwhelming so take care of yourself.
4. Reach out for support when things get tough. Hopefully, you have someone you can reach out to or maybe even more than someone. If you don’t, I want you to know that I will be here. So many have been there for me, and I want to be there as much as possible. Yes, they’re hard for me too. Let’s stand in solidarity with one another.
5. Be kind to yourself. Sometimes bingeing on Netflix is the most therapeutic thing you can do.
6. Eggnog. Because…well, this one speaks for itself.
7. Know that you are loved and cared for even when you feel alone. You are never alone.