1/x. The holidays are upon us! The holidays tend to bring up a lot of emotions for a lot of people & can be a hard time for many. Here are some tips to use during the holidays that come from Cognitive Behavioral Therapies! #CBTworks #PsychTwitter

2/x Increase emotional resiliency & reduce vulnerability to strong emotions taking control of us by eating, sleeping, and exercising enough & prioritizing these. This is tough at times so scheduling it may help.

3/x Know your boundaries & try to honor & assert them, as needed. If an all day Zoom is too much this year, try to communicate your needs & set a boundary (eg, a few hours of Zoom). We can set boundaries while respecting others’ needs and feelings too!

4/x Miscommunications or unclear & unsaid expectations often lead to people being hurt at the holidays. Try to let your loved ones know if you would like something to happen (or not happen) & let them know your expectations.

5/x Do something that brings you joy & makes you feel good! Have a favorite holiday food? Eat it! Nowhere to go this year due to COVID but love dressing up? Do it anyway!

6/x Practice opposite action from #DBT Our emotions have urges w/them (eg, to withdraw when sad) so if your emotions are getting in the way of what you want or what’s helpful & effective, act opposite to the urge (eg, call a friend and chat instead of isolating).

7/x 2020 was tough & holidays can be too. Practice self-compassion & try to be aware & nonjudgmental of whatever arises for you this holiday & try to accept it as it is. Pushing reality away usually makes it worse.

8/x I am just a donkey in sequin pants but I hope this was helpful! Shine your sparkly sequin light all around. And remember, we are in a pandemic so wear a mask, socially distance, wash your hands, and be safe! #maskup