How to Check In on Your Emotional Well-Being

Replay Now Available: Mental Health During the Holidays

If you missed our live conversation this week, the full replay is now available right here in the Collective.

One of the most meaningful parts of our discussion with Dr. Preeti Vidwans was exploring why mental health can feel different as we get older — especially during the holidays. Life transitions, changing routines, health shifts, losses, and even reduced daily structure can all influence how steady or unsettled we feel emotionally. None of this means something is “wrong.” It simply means awareness becomes more important.

To help make that awareness easier, Dr. Vidwans shared a simple, powerful framework anyone can use to check in on their mental health.

A Four-Part Framework for Understanding Your Mental Well-Being

1. Cognitive

Are you noticing more difficulty concentrating, making decisions, remembering things, or staying organized?Changes in focus or clearer mental fatigue can be early signs that your emotional health needs attention.

2. Behaviors

Have you pulled back from your routines, hobbies, or social connections?Are you sleeping more, eating less, or simply not feeling like yourself?Small behavioral shifts often show up before we consciously realize something feels off.

3. Emotions

Are you experiencing increased sadness, irritability, anxiety, or a sense of heaviness?Emotional changes — especially when they linger — can tell us that support may be helpful.

4. Physical

Are you feeling more tired, tense, achy, or noticing changes in appetite or sleep patterns?Our bodies often alert us before our minds do.

Why this matters

This framework isn’t meant to diagnose anything — it’s simply a gentle check-in.For older adults who value independence, noticing early signs in these four areas helps you understand when a bit more support, connection, or professional guidance could make a real difference.

You’ll see this framework discussed throughout the replay.

If you’d like to learn more about the therapy work Dr. Vidwans does with adults 65+, you can visit Total Life here: www.totallife.com

Warmly,

Allison

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