Caring for Minds and Hearts During the Holidays

The holidays can bring joy, connection, and traditions we look forward to all year. They can also amplify stress, grief, loneliness, and anxiety. If you’re feeling “not like yourself” this season—or noticing that someone you care about is struggling—you’re not alone. Many people experience a rise in emotional distress around the holidays due to changes in routine, financial pressure, family conflict, shorter days, or missing someone who’s no longer here.
This season, the PAH Mental Health Committee encourages everyone in our community to check in with themselves and with each other. A little care and attention can go a long way.

For your own well-being
- Give yourself permission for the holidays to be “good enough.”
Expectations can be heavy this time of year. Try setting realistic goals instead of aiming for perfection. It’s okay to simplify plans, say no to extra obligations, or celebrate in a different way than usual.
- Keep small routines that support your mood.
Even mini-habits help: regular meals, a short walk, staying hydrated, getting outside during daylight, or keeping a usual bedtime. Physical activity and steady sleep are strongly linked to better mental health.
- Set boundaries with time, money, and energy.
Budgeting for gifts and travel, limiting events, or leaving early when you’re overwhelmed are healthy choices—not selfish ones.
- Let your feelings be real.
The holidays can bring mixed emotions at the same time: gratitude and sadness, joy and grief. Feeling down doesn’t mean you’re doing the season “wrong.” Acknowledging what you feel is often the first step toward relief.

Checking in on loved ones, friends, and neighbors
-Reach out—don’t wait for a “perfect moment.”
A quick text, call, card, or porch visit can reduce isolation. Simple messages like:
“Thinking of you today.”
“How are you holding up this season?”
“Want company for coffee or a walk?”
can make someone feel seen.

Look for quiet signs someone may be struggling.
Not everyone talks openly about mental health. Watch for changes such as:
-pulling away from friends/family
-sleep or appetite shifts
-increased irritability or tearfulness
-using alcohol or substances more than usual
-expressing hopelessness or feeling like a burden

Offer specific help.
Instead of “Let me know if you need anything,” try something concrete:
-“I’m going to the store—can I pick you up a few things?”
-“Do you want to come over for dinner Tuesday?”
-“I can shovel or bring in your mail if you’re traveling.”
Small neighborly acts reduce stress and build connection.

Make space for grief.
-If someone is missing a loved one, allow them to talk about that person. You don’t need perfect words. Listening is powerful.
If the holidays are bringing more hurt than comfort
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stuck—please don’t try to “push through” alone.
Talk to someone you trust.
Reach out to your primary care provider or a counselor.
Consider a support group, faith leader, or community resource.

Confidential, free help is available 24/7:
Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for mental health or substance use support.
If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

You don’t have to carry the season alone. Whether you’re celebrating, grieving, or somewhere in between, you deserve care and support. Let’s keep looking out for one another—especially for the neighbors and loved ones who may be having a hard time behind the scenes.

From all of us at Punxsutawney Area Hospital, we wish you a safe, gentle, and healthy holiday season.