BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — We're getting closer and closer to the holidays, and a lot of us are no doubt looking forward to spending time with family and friends.
But like many things this year that have to change, the holiday season is one of them.
It's recommended that staying home is the safest bet, but here are some things you can do to lift your spirits and stay connected to those you love.
1) If you love to cook, the Allegany County Health Department suggests dropping off a holiday food basket filled with family favorite recipes and the ingredients to make them.
2) Have a virtual dinner with family and friends so everyone can re-connect.
3) Prepare traditional family recipes for family and neighbors - especially those at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Then drop it off to them in a way that doesn’t involve contact with others.
Don’t forget to take care of yourself as well.
"Make sure that you're taking care of just the basics, your diet. Are you sleeping enough, exercise. We were made to move, and when we lead sedentary lifestyles it really impacts our mental wellness," said Emma Montague, Licensed Mental Health Counselor at Horizon Health Services.
The Coronavirus has taken a lot from us, but Montague said try to focus on what you do have, and think about how grateful you are for that.
"This is a time when it's really easy to experience negative thinking. And focusing on what we can be grateful for is really important. It's an evidence-based practice in the treatment of many health problems," said Montague.
