The holidays can bring joy and connection; but also stress, sadness, and loneliness. For many Black Americans, these feelings can be intensified by grief, financial strain, or the pressure to meet expectations.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year, and African Americans are 20% more likely to face serious psychological distress. Finding culturally sensitive care from someone who understands racism, discrimination, and community dynamics can make a big difference. It’s okay to ask questions and find the right provider for you.

Simple Self-Care Tips

• Protect your peace: Limit time with people or situations that drain you.
• Honor your emotions: Allow space for grief, rest, and reflection.
• Reach out: Talk to a trusted friend, faith leader, or mental health professional.

This season, remember to care for yourself as intentionally as you care for others. Even small acts of self-kindness can help you find balance and peace through the holidays.

Set firm boundaries even if it’s uncomfortable. Don’t subject yourself to being around people who have abused or disrespected you to make others happy or because “that’s what family does.”

Healthy families and friendships don’t support abusive cycles and relationships. Avoid using shopping or food as a coping mechanism if you are sad, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy the season’s best offerings. But if you’re eating to fill a void, due to boredom, or sadness, push yourself to create healthier coping skills, like talking to a therapist, connecting with people who love and support you, and doing tasks that will increase feelings of mastery and
control (like cleaning, downsizing, or catching up on chores you’ve avoided).

The best thing you can do for self-care is to make a commitment to pick healthiness over happiness. People use the holidays as an excuse to indulge financially, emotionally, and physically.

Consider whether the short-term high is worth the consequences you’ll face or feelings you’ll have later. Healthy choices don’t always feel great in the moment but create amazing results in the long run.

Give back in ways you can afford that goes for money, time, and even your emotional energy. Determine how much you can allot this season in key categories like contributions, gifts, and volunteerism. Be honest and fair to yourself. Don’t just think big.

Consider allocating time to give to your immediate circle of family, friends, and community. If you find you need more coping strategies or help, consider talk therapy. Call The Village of Healing Center at 216-815-4325 and we’ll schedule you with a compassionate Black mental health therapist who can offer
options and techniques that allow for a better understanding of self care and how to cope during the holidays.