The holidays are a mix of emotions for me. I’m Tevyn Harmon—husband, father, and advocate for mental health—and while I’ve built a life filled with purpose, living with Bipolar II, anxiety, and depression and now Epilepsy can make this time of year feel more challenging than cheerful.
For many, the holidays symbolize joy and celebration, but for someone like me, they can bring pressure, overstimulation, and moments of deep reflection. Balancing the emotional highs and lows that come with Bipolar II, while managing the anxiety of holiday obligations and the melancholy of depression, can feel overwhelming. But over the years, I’ve learned how to not only survive the season but use it as a stepping stone for building a better year ahead.
Navigating the Holiday Hustle
One of the most difficult parts of the holidays is managing expectations. Family gatherings, gift-giving, and social commitments can take a toll, but I’ve found ways to handle it all while still prioritizing my mental health:
- Set Clear Boundaries:
I’ve realized I don’t have to say yes to everything. Whether it’s skipping an event or stepping outside during a gathering to take a breather, I’ve learned that it’s okay to put my needs first. Saying no doesn’t make me selfish—it’s an act of self-care. - Simplify Traditions:
I used to feel obligated to do everything “by the book”—perfect dinners, elaborate gifts, and packed schedules. Now, I focus on what truly matters, like creating memories with my family. Sometimes that means staying in for a quiet movie night or making homemade gifts with my son and wife, Hezikyah and Jessica. - Plan Ahead for Stressful Situations:
Financial stress is a big holiday trigger for me. I set a budget and stick to it, reminding myself that meaningful connections are more valuable than expensive gifts. When I start feeling overwhelmed, I reach out to my wife or my support network to talk it through.
Building Momentum for the New Year
As the holidays wind down, I try to use the quieter moments to reflect and set intentions for the year ahead. I don’t mean creating a laundry list of resolutions—those can feel like unnecessary pressure. Instead, I focus on small, actionable goals that align with my mental health journey and personal growth.
- Celebrate Small Wins:
I reflect on what went well during the past year, no matter how small. Did I manage my mood better during a tough situation? Did I practice self-care more consistently? Recognizing progress keeps me motivated. - Set Mental Health Priorities:
For me, this means staying consistent withmy routines, and finding new ways to manage my triggers. The new year is a chance to recommit to what works. - Dream Big, Start Small:
Whether it’s launching a new project, strengthening family bonds, or deepening my advocacy work, I break big goals into smaller steps. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress.
The Gift of Grace
As I look to the new year, my focus is on extending grace to myself and others. The holidays can be tough, but they can also serve as a reminder of what’s most important: connection, love, and growth.
If you’re like me, navigating the highs and lows of the season, know that it’s okay to take it one day at a time. You don’t have to have it all figured out. The holidays might be messy and imperfect, but they’re also an opportunity to reflect, recharge, and start the new year with hope.
This season, I’m holding space for the struggles and the joys, building something meaningful for the year ahead—one step at a time.
