Remember that you come first
This step can be a difficult thing to remember. Self-care starts with trying to put yourself first. Physical and mental well-being are critical to your healing, so start with the basics. It’s important to make sure that you eat, drink water, and get enough sleep. These simple steps can make all the difference in taking care of yourself.
Everyone needs a break from time to time. That can be sitting and taking a few deep breaths. Set aside some time–it can be as little as fifteen minutes a day–to do something just for you. Try watching an episode of your favorite show or doodling on a piece of paper. It can be hard to take time off, so remember that we all need rest.
For more self-care ideas, see what BARCC staff have to say about what self-care means to them. You can also follow us on Instagram for tips on how to stay grounded in the midst of the constant news cycle.
Set boundaries
Setting boundaries can be incredibly difficult, but it’s okay not to attend every event that you’re invited to. Setting boundaries also encourages and strengthens healthy relationships. If someone invites you to an event that you don’t feel comfortable or great about attending, you can thank them for the invitation and then politely decline.
Spend some time alone
The rush of the holidays can be overwhelming and overstimulating for some people after they experience sexual violence. And it’s possible that you aren’t going to be in the same emotional space or have the same energy as others in certain social situations. Finding time to be alone will allow you to rest, decompress, and re-energize.
Do something that excites you
It’s possible that you may not be looking forward to the holidays. This may be a good time to find a new tradition that makes you feel excited, happy, or connected. A few options might be volunteering at your local food pantry or animal shelter, bundling up and taking a nature walk, or checking out a workshop at BARCC.
Reach out for support if you’re struggling
Check in with loved ones. Call a friend or family member who means a lot to you, or ask a loved one if they would be willing to check in with you. It can make all the difference in how your day goes! You can also always access immediate support through BARCC. Our 24-hour hotline will be open all throughout the holidays. You can call 800-841-8371 or message our web chat at barcc.org/chat from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. every day.
