Social Responsibility

Mental Health Tips for the Holidays

The holidays are just around the corner and while often considered a joyous season, we know that this year may be especially difficult. When stress is at its peak, it's hard to stop and regroup. We want to help!

Written by Intuit Blog teamIntuit Blog Team
Featuring Intuit Blog team, Intuit Blog Team
Published Dec 22, 2020 - [Updated Dec 2, 2022]
2 min read

The holidays are just around the corner and while often considered a joyous season, we know that this year may be especially difficult. When stress is at its peak, it’s hard to stop and regroup.

We want to help! That’s why we’ve partnered with our Intuit Abilities Network to share some actionable tips to help minimize holiday stress:

Be realistic. The holidays don’t have to be perfect or just like last year. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few favorites to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones. Find new ways to celebrate together, such as setting up a date for a video call, or exchanging favorite photos from throughout the year.

Maintain healthy habits. Find ways to incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine. Try out some new recipes, keep a glass of water nearby to help you stay hydrated and don’t forget to move your body daily. Whether its enjoying a light walk around your neighborhood or exploring a new park, getting some exercise while enjoying some fresh air can help lift your spirits while mixing up your day.

Take a breather. With all the hustle and bustle of the season, be sure to take some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may help refresh you enough to handle everything on your to do list. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm. This could include listening to your favorite music, reading a book, meditating, writing down the things you’re most grateful for or even exploring a new hobby.

Acknowledge your feelings. If you can’t be with loved ones, acknowledge that it’s normal to feel sadness and grief. Don’t feel like you have to force yourself to be happy just because it’s the holiday season.

Seek help from a professional. You still may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, feeling physically exhausted, unable to sleep, irritable, and/or unable to face routine chores. If these feelings last for a while, remember that it’s ok to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. If you or a loved one is experiencing emotional distress, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7 support. Call 1-800-273-8255 for free and confidential help.

At Intuit, we celebrate diversity and value inclusion. We strive to ensure employees and their families have access to the support they need through comprehensive global benefits programs and initiatives like our Employee Resource Groups.

It’s ok to not feel perfect during the holidays. Remember that this time is fleeting and make sure you take the time you need to take care of yourself.