HEALTH MATTERS
"A combined 58 million American adults are living with either major depression (16M) or an anxiety disorder (42M), but in my experience, 100 percent of people will experience a stressor, or a loved one will need support, during the holiday season," says Dr. Monika Roots, vice president of health services at Teladoc, the world's largest and most trusted provider of virtual care delivery services. "One of the reasons I'm an advocate of telehealth for mental health is that it allows people to access care upon feeling triggered, not waiting weeks to get an appointment. After your aunt asks you why you're single at the dinner table, for example, you can talk to someone immediately, making it easier to proactively manage stressors before they become major issues."
How else can you help yourself or a loved one maintain positive mental health during the holidays? We asked Teladoc's Dr. Roots for the top five ways to mitigate holiday-triggered anxiety. Here's what she said:
1. Set boundaries. If you are overwhelmed by family, friends or work commitments, take quality time for yourself. A long walk or designated time unplugged from work or social interactions will help clear your mind.
2. Ask for help. If you need to talk to someone, don't hesitate to get care. If you are away from your therapist or psychologist/psychiatrist, telehealth services are available by phone, web or mobile app. Check out Teladoc.com/therapy for more information.
3. Stick to a routine. If you are traveling, try to wake up, eat and go to bed at the same
time as you normally would at home. Keeping an organized, regular schedule will help mitigate stress and anxiety.
4. Exercise. Maintaining physical health is key to maintaining mental health. Anything counts, even a walk around the mall while shopping!
5. Get some sleep: Try to log 7-9 hours a night. This will help improve mental focus and overall mood.
Many people don't realize that they have access to a telehealth solution like Teladoc through their health benefits, or that these services offer mental health support. Further, as opposed to 25-day wait times for a mental health visit (according to the Kennedy Forum), you can see Teladoc licensed therapists and psychologists/psychiatrists within minutes, so you can get back to enjoying your holiday.
"I know that seeking mental help is deeply personal," said Dr. Roots. "It's my personal mission - and one that's shared amongst all of us at Teladoc - to make sure no one ever feels alone as they navigate their mental health. If you're experiencing stress, anxiety or depression this holiday season - or ever - please reach out to a doctor for support. If you do decide to try Teladoc, know that you can speak to the same person throughout your course of care, if you so choose."