It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Or is it? While the time between Halloween and New Year’s can be exciting and fun for many people, it can be a time of stress, depression, and anxiety for others. It’s important to understand stressors so that you can begin to manage them, especially during this heightened time of the year. Below are a few tips we hope will help you enjoy a healthy and happy holiday season.
First, understand that stress is both internal and external. Here’s a quick breakdown of each type:
So why does the holiday season worsen our stress? Sometimes it’s due to grief. Sometimes it’s because we live in an “either/or” situation or we set excessive expectations of ourselves or others.
Here’s how we can de-stress:
- Acknowledge your feelings. They are real.
- If you’re grieving, let the grief process continue, but be sure to reach out for help. Don’t grieve alone.
- Be realistic.
- Plan ahead.
- Stick to a budget.
- Learn to say no.
- Do less, enjoy more.
- Laugh like crazy!
- Go tech-free during holiday & family events.
- Find 5-10 minutes every day for reflection or meditation.
Happy Holidays!