With the holiday season upon us—along with looming travel plans, parties to attend, and families to see or not see—Kesha posted a poignant reminder on Twitter that it is okay if this time of year is hard for you, and that it's important to take time for yourself and your mental health in the midst of everything. (The thread she shared is the full text of a piece she wrote for Time,published at the end of November, on the subject.)
"The holiday season is supposed to be the most festive and fun time of the year but sometimes it can quickly become a stressful and emotional time," she started. "All those plans and expectations of joy can turn tougher than they sound. This is especially true for those of us who struggle with mental illness—be it depression, anxiety, addiction or any other challenges. The holidays break your routine....and that can shake you."
"When you have a routine, it's easier to manage whatever mental struggles you may be faced with, and when that routine is broken, it can trigger things you may not be ready to face," she continued. "I know it has for me. It was during the holidays when I hit a low moment and with the help of my mother decided to seek help for my eating disorder. Around the holidays, I often feel like I'm supposed to be everywhere, with everyone—all with the added guilt that it's the season of giving. To fight this, I've developed a mantra: It's not selfish to take time for yourself."
The singer stressed that self-care is essential above all: "Don't ask yourself things like 'It's almost Christmas, why am I not happy?' That can turn into a shame cycle. It's just another day—don't put unrealistic expectations on it, and don't beat yourself up. Trying to spend all of your time pleasing everyone else is not only exhausting—it's impossible. And you know what? If you take a little time for yourself, you will actually be much better company for those around you."
Read Kesha's full piece here.
Alyssa Bailey is the senior news and strategy editor at ELLE.com, where she oversees coverage of celebrities and royals (particularly Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton). She previously held positions at InStyle and Cosmopolitan. When she's not working, she loves running around Central Park, making people take #ootd pics of her, and exploring New York City.
