12/21/22
on the eighth day of blogmas, bravebutsoft gave to me...
considerations for the holiday season!
considerations for the holidays for your mentally ill loved ones:
consider traveling restraints
traveling anxiety is the root of many people's social anxiety. driving anxiety is something that many people struggle with as well. consider this when inviting someone to an event this holiday season, especially in the snowy weather. but this also covers other types of travel. most mentally ill individuals have a 'safe space' which is usually their home. this is wherever they feel most comfortable. sometimes leaving this 'safe zone' is extremely anxiety inducing and should be realized as a valid feeling.
respect the need for a safe place
if you do succeed in inviting a mentally ill loved one into your home, make sure that they are as comfortable as possible. having their own space where the can relax and feel as at home as possible will help this person feel safe even though they are outside of their comfort zone. often times this need of space is essential for indiviudals to feel 'normal.'
remember that crowds can be disruptive
the holiday events are some of the most festive events of the year. and most everyone loves spending the holidays attending these events. but the social anxiety is screaming inside those with the mental illness. often times, those with social anxiety find crowds, loud music, and chaos to be overwhelming. being overwhelmed can cause those with anxiety to panic and have an anxiety or panic attack. remember this when you invite family to outside events and be okay with it if they aren't comfortable attending.
honor the person as they are
often times, mental illnesses get the stereotype that the individuals are "faking it," or "asking for attention." those with true mental illnesses are often very aware that others think this and often hide their true emotions so that they don't feel like a burden. that is why it's extremely important to honor the individual as they are and take their word when they express how they are feeling. take them seriously.
as much as people love the holidays, there are just as many people who despise this time of year.
remember that people can despise the holidays for many reasons:
not everyone has an easy-to-get-along-with family
finances aren't easy during this time of year
social pressure, loneliness, and bitterness
mental illness gets in the way
you can't fake being happy
they're grieving the loss of something or someone
make sure you think before you act. take it easy on those that don't seem as holly & jolly, they might be struggling with something that you aren't aware of.
and most of all, be kind.
Inspo from: healthyplace.com
I hope you guys liked this one!
remember, you deserve to be here <3
xx Loryn
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