While the holiday season can be a joyous time for many, it can also be stressful and overwhelming.

 

That’s why the Northern Health Region is reminding residents to be kind to themselves and focus on their wellbeing at this time of year.

 

Shellie Verville, the mental health promotions coordinator with the organization explains.

 

“We’re kind of in the season of the winter blues so we are already going into the holiday season possibly feeling a little bit tired or maybe even a little sad. There are also financial pressures that we experience since the holidays can be really expensive buying gifts for friends and family. It can leave families in a bit of debt even after the holidays. We also have times when we are with people that we might have strained relationships with. We might not see eye to eye with different family members so that can be an issue over the holidays. During this time with COVID-19 going on, we may not be with the people that we love during the holiday season like we have in the past.”

 

Verville says some ways people can reduce their stress during the holidays include getting enough sleep, eating healthy, getting exercise, thinking positive, and not being afraid to ask for or accept help.

 

For more information, catch Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon.