Build Your Mental Health Toolkit
OCT 02, 2024Think of a mental health toolkit as a collection of strategies you can access whenever you need them. It’s about equipping yourself to handle challenges in a healthy way.
Read MoreHolidays can be stressful for blended families. Parents may need to follow court orders while being flexible and using common sense. Communication with the other parent is essential, especially if someone is sick. Now’s the time to avoid the blame game and do what’s in the best interest of the children. Try these tips for making the season bright for the entire family:
Plan your holidays early with the other parent(s) and families. Be open and honest about upcoming holiday events and time sharing.
Communicate in a civil and respectful way despite differences. This is a relief for children. Be positive and remember that you ultimately cannot control the other household. Pick your battles and seek balance.
Give with fairness and equity because gift giving is an important part of the holiday, especially for children. Plan ahead to avoid hard feelings.
Be flexible because every situation is unique. Do what you can to make the holidays a time of connection.
Accept a range of emotions. Grief and loss are part of blended families, and everyone may wish that things were different. No matter how long it has been, children struggle with loss.
Before, during and after the holidays, remember to nurture family relationships. Give hugs, read a bedtime story, have family dinners and movie nights, put notes in lunch boxes and have date nights with your spouse. Family connectedness should be a priority. Meanwhile take care of yourself! Slow down, breathe and practice self-care. Spend time with your significant other and remember that you’re on the same team. The goal is to have safe and healthy family relationships.
Visit chihealth.com/behavioral to connect with a CHI Health mental health provider. We offer in-person and virtual therapy sessions with our team of licensed mental health therapists.
Originally Published: December 2020. Updated: October 2022.
Think of a mental health toolkit as a collection of strategies you can access whenever you need them. It’s about equipping yourself to handle challenges in a healthy way.
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