Anxiety, grief, depression.

They are the little talked about, but very real, emotions that join holiday celebrations and joy.

The Canadian Mental Health Association is encouraging residents to include mental health when preparing for the festive season.

Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥œThe festivities come with high expectations of perfection, but we know that pressure is something most of us canÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™t live up to," said Julia Payson, executive director for CMHA Vernon and District. "For many, the holidays heighten feelings of isolation, financial strain, or family conflict. This can particularly be the case when experiencing the loss of a loved one, a relationship or a job."

By keeping things simple, looking after yourself and focusing on what is important in your life, said Payson, you can make your mental health a priority.

Tips for Holiday Peace of Mind

1. Pay attention to your feelings Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥“ ItÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s OK to feel unhappy during the holidays. Recognizing your feelings is the first step to addressing and nurturing them. Plan to call friends or family members, go for a walk, do an activity that brings joy, or watch a favourite movie. Planning ahead of time can make difficult moments more manageable;

2. Practice self-care Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥“ Schedule time for yourself and activities that recharge your mind and body. Read a good book, spend time in nature, or practice stress management like deep breathing, meditation and mindfulness. Try to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of sleep, and find time to move your body;

3. Avoid overindulging Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥“ Over-eating, over-drinking, over-spending can have a damaging effect on your mental health. Set a budget and try to stick to it, and plan social activities that arenÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™t expensive or all about eating and drinking;

4. Connect with community Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥“ If you canÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™t be near loved ones during the holidays, finding a supportive community through clubs, support groups and community centres can reduce loneliness and isolation. Consider scheduling regular phone calls with family and friends. Helping others not only gives joy, but it can also improve your own happiness and well-being;

5. Learn stress-busting skills you can use year-round Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥“ If the holidays often get you down and starts to affect your daily life into the new year, you can access help. Talk to your family doctor or check out programs like BounceBack. To learn more, visit .

Dealing with Holiday Grief

The season can be especially difficult when weÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™ve lost someone or have grief connected with the holidays. Below are some tips to help you or someone you know get through a potentially hard time:

Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥¢ Talking about the loved one is OK. You donÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™t need to tiptoe around your loved oneÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s memory Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥“ that will only make it worse. You miss them, and you can talk about them;

Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥¢ Things wonÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™t be the same. ItÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s normal to feel at odds with yourself and family events when dealing with grief. Try not to hide, but donÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™t feel guilty about limiting how many events you attend. Give yourself the space you need; 

Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥¢ DonÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™t let other peopleÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s expectations dictate how your holiday will unfold. If you donÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™t feel like doing something this holiday season, donÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™t let others force you. If you do want to attend holiday functions, make sure you know your limits. Do whatever you need to do to help yourself.

For those struggling with mental health, there is always someone available to answer your call no matter the date or time. The 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline is available 24 hours a day, every single day of the year. Dial or text 9-8-8.

To learn more about CMHA VernonÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s services and programs, or to donate, go to