308: Behind the Sessions: Post-Holiday Blues with Dr. Kat

Welcome to our last episode of 2023 as we continue our Behind the Sessions series. These episodes are created to give you a glimpse behind the scenes of therapy sessions. Even in today’s world, there is so much stigma and so many misconceptions about what goes on in therapy sessions and when someone can benefit from therapy. You don’t have to “just be strong” and pull yourself through the hard things in life. Around the holidays, many people feel disconnected and isolated for various reasons, and it can be a devastating time for your mental health. Let’s talk about how to manage the post-holiday slump.  Show Highlights: Why managing a pregnancy or life with a newborn/toddler around the holidays can be extra stressful Why moms usually feel pressure in greater ways to be the “default doer,” the manager of gatherings, and the coordinator of delicate family relationships How fears of sickness (COVID, flu, and RSV) can cause increased holiday pressure How to navigate family scenarios around setting boundaries, making others respect your boundaries, setting limits on your time, and putting exit strategies in place How to manage your emotional/mental load, your own internal process, and complex emotional relationships with family members Why grief is more pronounced and more difficult around the holidays How to “call out stuff” in managing your stress Tips for getting yourself back to baseline: Allow yourself time to recuperate. Ask yourself each day, “What do I need today?” Identify small, baby steps to reduce your load of stress. Treat yourself with compassion, love, and kindness.  Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!