Suggestions include taking regular breaks from stressful situations and knowing that it's okay to step back. (Prairie Hope Wellness/Facebook)

By Rachel May

Mental Health and Change

Prairie Hope Wellness shares tips on how to handle the stress of a new year

Jan 4, 2023 | 12:00 PM

The following is Part 2/2 of the northeastNOW series exploring mental health and change as we transition into the new year.

Changes are inevitable as we begin the new year, but Prairie Hope Wellness is sharing tips on how to successfully face the unknown.

Although change may seem daunting, counselor Mike Lang told northeastNOW that the first step is to acknowledge your emotions. He said they are completely normal and may fluctuate in intensity.

“Especially around significant periods of the year like holidays, anniversary dates, and special family moments, plan ahead for these occasions,” he said.

Lang explains that setting healthy limits and expectations for yourself is key to adapting to the inevitable. He also reminds everyone to be flexible and patient as they learn along the way.

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“Navigating change is tough and scary! Don’t be afraid to communicate with others about what you need. Connecting with others may be scary during periods of change, but it can help you to face your fears.”

Despite the mental health challenges you may face, it’s critical to remember that health is comprised of various different domains.

With resolutions on many people’s plates, developing new habits can help remind you that health is made up of many components.

“Don’t neglect your physical needs! Don’t abandon healthy habits like exercising, eating well, and getting enough sleep.”

Other tips include remembering to take regular breaks from situations that cause you stress and recognizing it’s okay to step back from things that overwhelm you.

Lang encourages everyone to give themselves permission to feel what they need to feel.

“There is no need to rush to quickly adapt to the change and “let go”. Take a mental health break when you feel you need to. Be gentle with yourself.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, you can contact Prairie Hope Wellness for a counseling session at 306-920-8881.

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Rachel.May@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RachelMayFM