The end of the year doesn’t have to be filled with stress and frustration. This holiday season, don’t forget to sprinkle some self-care in the middle of the hustle and bustle. When you take notice of the difference between activities that drain you versus those that fill you up, you can empower yourself to make decisions that support your wellbeing.

Having mental health or substance use challenges can make the intensity of the season even more daunting. The good news is that there are plenty of resources and practices to support the residents of Fairfax County. The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) remains available every day of the year for behavioral health support and emergencies. For less severe behavioral health needs, the CSB offers over 50 different services for individuals with mental health issues, substance misuse or developmental disabilities.

You don’t have to just survive the holidays—you deserve to enjoy them. Here are a few simple steps you can take to make sure you enjoy yourself, your time and those around you during this busy period: 

Acknowledge Your Feelings

If you notice that completing your to-do list feels like climbing a mountain, take a moment to acknowledge how you feel. Allowing yourself to recognize how your body responds to the demands of the season can provide a level of relief. Additionally, if you struggle with a mental health or substance use disorder, give yourself the gift of acknowledging that the holidays may trigger certain emotions. You can get ahead of triggers by making a plan. 

Make a Plan

Plan out your holiday season as much as possible to reduce the likelihood of agreeing to something that may negatively impact your health. If you are proactive in how you want to schedule your time, you can build in opportunities to rest and practice stillness. 

Practice Stillness

Be. Still. And breathe… Even one minute of slow, deep breathing can calm our body’s central nervous system. This sets the stage for a better mood, more appropriate responses, and feelings of joy and connectedness.

Be Realistic

Be realistic about what you can confidently commit to and show up to in a way that is enjoyable and fun. If you’re concerned about finances during the holidays, don’t feel obligated to spend money in a way that will negatively impact your financial future. Pull from your internal resources (gratitude, graciousness, creativity, etc.) to share with those you care about. 

Access Help and Resources

You don’t have to do this alone. There is an abundance of resources to support positive experiences, especially when mental health and substance use can be a challenge. 

To Access CSB Services

• For CSB Non-Emergency Behavioral Health Services, call CSB Entry & Referral at 703-383-8500 TTY 771, Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You may also walk-in at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and Friday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• For emergency mental health or substance use services, walk-in services are available 24/7 at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health or call 703-573-5679 TTY 711.
• If you or someone you know is experiencing a substance use crisis, call the Fairfax Detoxification Center 24/7 at 703-502-7000, TTY 703-322-9080.
• If someone with a developmental disability is experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis, call REACH, a 24/7 regional crisis stabilization and crisis prevention service for children, youth and adults with developmental disabilities, at 855-897-8278.