Simple Ways to Protect Your Mental Health This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is often portrayed as a time of joy, togetherness, and gratitude.

But for many, this season can highlight feelings of loneliness, stress, or loss.

With pressures from social media, past family conflicts, or even memories of loved ones, Thanksgiving can be challenging for mental health.

Fortunately, nurturing your mental well-being in small ways—starting with gratitude and kindness—can have a huge impact on your mood.

Holiday expectations can place a strain on mental health. For some, the season is a painful reminder of loved ones lost or relationships strained.

The gap between the “ideal” holiday and personal reality can make loneliness or grief more acute, leading to sadness or anxiety. It’s really no wonder that reports of depression and other mental health struggles increase around this time of year.

Adding to these pressures are troubling news stories, inflation concerns, and uncertainty.

But grounding ourselves in gratitude and kindness can bring relief in times like these.

In fact, studies show that practicing gratitude not only improves mood but also helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. And showing kindness to others benefits both the giver and the receiver, fostering feelings of fulfillment and connection.

Research suggests that even the most minor acts of appreciation can profoundly impact mental health. Here are a few easy ways to incorporate gratitude into your daily life:

• Start a Gratitude Journal: Write down one to three things you’re grateful for daily. They can be as simple as the fresh air, a warm meal, or a friendly smile from a stranger. Reflecting on these moments can help you stay grounded and present, alleviating worries about the past or future.
• Share with Family: If you’re gathering with family, consider sharing something you’re grateful for at dinner or bedtime. This simple exchange can foster a sense of connection and remind everyone of the good things, no matter how small.
• Focus on the Small Joys: Stop and acknowledge the little things that bring joy. It could be a comfortable moment, a song that made you smile, or even a funny meme that lifted your mood. Over time, these small moments of gratitude contribute to a more positive outlook.

Gratitude and kindness are a great place to start, but don’t stop there. Specific natural remedies can support your mental health as well:

• Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb is known for its stress-relieving properties. Ashwagandha helps balance cortisol levels, making it particularly helpful during high-stress periods like Thanksgiving.
• Magnesium: Often called the “relaxation mineral,” magnesium can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Taking a magnesium supplement, especially before bed, may help you feel more relaxed and improve overall mood.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, omega-3s can reduce depression symptoms and improve mood. A supplement can provide extra mood support, especially when battling holiday stress.
• L-Theanine: This amino acid, found in green tea, promotes relaxation without drowsiness. It’s an excellent option for anyone who feels jittery or anxious, as it helps foster a sense of calm.

If you’re finding Thanksgiving particularly difficult this year, consider reaching out to friends, family, or even a professional. Also, support groups can be beneficial, especially those for people struggling during the holidays.

There’s also no shame in seeking professional mental health care to help you navigate feelings of grief, anxiety, or depression.

Practicing gratitude and kindness during Thanksgiving won’t erase all the challenges, but these small acts can shift your perspective, making room for moments of peace and joy.

P.S. Battling the holiday blues? THIS drug-free mental health booster can give you a whole new attitude.