Keeping a Healthy Body and Mind at Christmas

Christmas is a happy time for many people, but for others, it can be a trying time of year.

That can be especially true for those who have recently lost a loved one. Ralph Aman, Supervisor for the Cypress Health Region's Adult Mental Health Department, says it can take a long time for people to adjust when they are grieving during the holiday season.

"It's certainly normal and healthy to maybe want to bow out of some of those activities and take a break," he said. "What we encourage people to do is to plan ahead and think about, do they want to be alone or be with other people, which can also help ease the pain."

Aman also encourages everyone to take care of themselves this holiday, and that includes following normal routines, eating right and getting enough sleep.

"Don't let the holidays become a free-for-all," he added. "Overindulging can really add to stress and guilt. Things like having a healthy snack before holiday parties so you don't go overboard on sweets, cheeses or drinks, and get plenty of sleep and physical activity."

With many people trying to get last-minute preparations and shopping completed, the hustle and bustle of the holidays can get to a lot of people. Aman says one way to help reduce stress is to follow realistic expectations.

"The holidays don't have to be perfect, or just like last year's," he said. "Especially as families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold onto and be open to creating new ones."

Aman adds, for example, if adult children can't come home for the holidays, you can find new ways to celebrate together like sharing pictures, emails and videos.

He says if someone is going through a particularly stressful time and needs some support, they can call the Health Region's Mental Health and Addictions staff at 306-778-5280, or the Provincial Healthline at 8-1-1.