Maximizing Mental and Physical Wellness During the Holidays
INSIGHTS FROM OUR CEO
First, Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! It’s that time of year again, to celebrate, reflect, and welcome new opportunities in the New Year.
It’s also a couple of months that seem to pass by in a flash when we’re expected to do, be and buy – do the holiday cards, be at all of the parties, and buy for everyone. It reminds me of the time it takes to cook a delicious meal, only to be eaten in ten minutes.
How can we maintain our mental and physical wellness with this external pressure?
1. For me, physically, I maintain my typical workout schedule. I don’t allow the holidays to deter me from attending class or taking a daily walk. This consistency grounds me when I feel overwhelmed by everything on my to-do list.
2. Mentally, we all need to be kind to ourselves and set boundaries. We don’t “have to go” to Aunt Crazy’s house because that’s “what we’ve always done.” Even if your aunt isn’t “crazy,” it is okay to say no and send or drop off a special treat to show you care.
3. Our wellness matters, and specifically for you as public safety professionals, you have to manage your time, which is your energy, to perform at your highest and not burn yourself out.
4. We all talk about self-care, which means many things and varies among us. I enjoy reading – quiet time to reboot is a necessity for those of us that are in service positions. I also enjoy massages and plan to get back to regular monthly massages in the New Year, which comes highly recommended by many. It’s a part of their stress management routine.
5. Practicing gratitude – we hear this a lot, and it’s proven to help with stress; however, many people avoid these practices, including myself, at least consistently. However, when I do this, I feel calmer and more positive.
6. We all know that getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and avoiding or having minimal alcohol is best for our overall mental and physical well-being. Is it more challenging during the holidays? YES. However, give yourself grace, yet have self-awareness and recognize when you need support – reach out to a friend, provider, or support group.
FMRT is here to continue the dialogue around stress resiliency and overall wellness support for public safety during the Holidays and ongoing. Reach out to us if we can assist you or other mental health resources:
– NAMI
– NC 211
– FHEHealth – offering addiction & mental health treatment for public safety
Thank you for all that you do!
We continue to be honored and humbled to support you.
Elizabeth Morris, M.A.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Phone: 336-761-0764 ext. 1011
Email: elizabeth@fmrt.org
FMRT Updates
Drop Off OR Mail
- Asheville: 6B Herman Avenue Ext., Asheville, NC 28803
- Charlotte: 6419 Bannington Road, Suite A, Charlotte, NC 28226
- Winston-Salem: 1411 Plaza West Dr, Suite A, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
- Raleigh: 8315 Six Forks Road, Suite 201, Raleigh, NC 27615
- Greenville: 702 Cromwell Drive, Suite D, Greenville, NC 27858
We are excited to be a part of this toy drive and appreciate your help.
If you have any questions, please contact Donna@fmrt.org or call 336-761-0764, ext 1014.
Thank You for the Opportunity to Support
Thank you to the following departments for your recent referrals:
- NC Agencies: Asheville Fire Department, City of Fletcher, Hyde County Sheriff’s Office, Piedmont Triad Airport Authority
- SC Agencies: Charleston County Aviation Authority
