As the year comes to an end, it can be a time of excitement, celebration and connection with family and friends. It may also challenge us to sustain our well-being goals, keep up with healthy habits or maintain our peace of mind.
If this sounds familiar, support is available. The university offers many programs and resources to help you take care of your body, mind and mood this season, and beyond.
Take care of your mental and emotional health
In addition to celebrations and merriment, this time of year can also bring up a challenging mix of complex feelings. It’s common to experience heightened stress, anxiety, sadness or feelings of being overwhelmed or isolated.
If you would like to talk to someone, support is available. U-M faculty, staff and their adult dependents have access to Mental Health Counseling and Consultation Services at no charge (from Michigan Medicine Office of Counseling and Workplace Resilience and the Faculty and Staff Counseling and Consultation Office).
Services and resources to support your mental and emotional health are also available any time of the year. If you live outside of the state of Michigan but within the USA, you can receive mental and emotional health services from our partner ComPsych. Plus, every health plan offered by U-M provides coverage for mental health care.
Close out 2025 equipped with financial strategies for 2026
Personal finances continue to be a leading cause of stress for many. Holiday celebrations and gift giving can further exacerbate the situation. If you are experiencing financial stress, you're not alone – there are many tips and resources available to help.
On Dec. 4, MHealthy is also hosting “Year-End Financial Well-Being Town Hall and Q&A,” a fast-paced, interactive session designed to help you finish 2025 strong and start planning for 2026. Financial experts will recap major financial events from the year and offer practical insights to help you plan ahead with confidence. Presented by MHealthy and the U-M Credit Union.
Discover delicious (and healthy) recipes
Are you looking for delicious, yet healthy recipes for your holiday table? Search MHealthy's recipes and find satisfying and easy recipes for this holiday season. Hundreds of recipes are available that emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, lean protein, low-fat dairy and healthy fats.
MHealthy is also hosting two free, virtual cooking classes in December. On Dec. 3, attend the “Deliciously Cozy – Gluten-Free Plant-Based Favorites” class. You’ll learn to make Vegan Butternut Squash, Kale & Chickpea Soup and No-Bake Peanut Butter Pumpkin Bites – perfect for cozy gatherings and mindful eating. Prefer festive snacks and drinks? Register for the Dec. 10 “Munchies and Mocktails” class. You’ll whip up tasty alcohol-free beverages like the Cranberry Lemon Ginger Sparkler, Spicy Nah-garita, as well as fun, easy snacks.
Drink mindfully (or maybe not at all)
For some, the holiday season is a time for celebrating. For others, it may be a cause for stress or anxiety. In both cases, alcohol could play a role. If you're thinking about cutting back or abstaining from alcohol, sign up to get "Holiday Stop and Swap" emails from the MHealthy Alcohol Management Program. From Nov. 17 – Jan. 5, you'll receive weekly tips, resources and a swap challenge encouraging a positive change.
MHealthy’s Alcohol Management Program has also compiled resources, apps, books and more that can help you be more mindful of your drinking choices.
Keep moving
Movement is good for your body, mind and mood. Taking time for a short walk or bout of physical activity can help to energize your body, clear your mind and relieve stress.
If maintaining your well-being goals during this time of year is a challenge, join “Joyful Movement During the Holidays” on Dec. 3 at noon. You'll discover how joyful movement can transform your relationship with your body this holiday season, and beyond.
MHealthy also has a variety of online physical activity programs and resources, including an extensive physical activity video library and archived virtual classes on Slack.
If you’re looking for an in-person option, consider joining a winter in-person physical activity class in the new year. Registration opens Dec. 8 and classes start Jan. 5, 2026. The cost is $50–$70 for 10 to 14 weekly sessions. If finances are a barrier, a limited number of scholarships are available for qualifying employees.
Protect yourself from flu and COVID-19
Respiratory illness season is ramping up, so getting your vaccinations should be a top priority. Be sure to get your updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines if you haven’t already. They can help keep you healthy and may also protect others who might become very ill if exposed.
You (as well as spouses/OQAs, dependents and retirees) can also get flu or COVID-19 vaccinations at your doctor’s office, local clinic or most pharmacies. Learn more about coverage through U-M's health plans. For Ann Arbor campus employees, drop-in clinics offering both flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available on select days across through early December. For Michigan Medicine employees, learners and volunteers, flu shots are available through Occupational Health Services.
