How to Manage Stress and Protect Your Mental Health During Summer Holidays: Tips from MyBlackDog
While summer holidays can be a wonderful time to relax and recharge, they can also bring about unexpected stress. By planning, prioritising self-care, setting realistic expectations, and seeking support when needed, you can protect your mental health and enjoy your time off.
Summer holidays, while typically meant to be enjoyable, can often lead to stress and anxiety due to several factors including pressure to relax, financial worries and disrupted routines. The expectation of having the perfect relaxing holiday can sometimes ironically get in the way of genuine relaxation. One way to alleviate the potential stress that comes with the expectation of having a perfect holiday is by setting realistic expectations. Accept that not everything will go as planned, and that’s perfectly okay. With this embrace the imperfections and focus on enjoying the moment rather than striving for a flawless holiday.
Setting a realistic budget goes hand in hand with realistic expectations of the holiday in general. Vacations can be expensive, and concerns about overspending can weigh heavily on your mind. Remember that experiences often provide more lasting joy than material items, so focus on creating memories rather than accumulating souvenirs. In addition, communication is key when on holiday. Differing ideas or sudden changes to routines can challenge plans already made. proper communication can ensure that everyone’s interests are considered.
The role of my black dog
If the stress of the holidays becomes overwhelming, seeking support can be incredibly beneficial in reducing feelings of isolation or helplessness. MyBlackDog is a mental health charity which offers peer support for people struggling with mental health issues. MyBlackDog provides access to volunteers who have personal experience with mental health struggles. Talking to someone who understands can provide relief and support during stressful times. You can chat with volunteers online, making it a convenient option while travelling or away from home. Importantly, holiday stress is something which most travellers encounter and this is where connecting with others through the MyBlackDog volunteer chat can help to reduce the feelings of loneliness. MyBlackDog is here to help with volunteer chat support, offering a lifeline when you need someone to talk to. Don’t hesitate to reach out and make the most of your summer holidays with peace of mind and support.