Happy Holidays!

It is a time for people to be merry and bright. Yet, with the jam-packed social calendar, deadlines at work, the loss of a loved one, sunless winter days, political turmoil, and family dynamics or all of the above, it may not be very merry or bright for many.

According to the American Psychological Association, 38% of people surveyed said their stress increased during the holiday season which can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse. The reasons given include lack of time, financial pressure, gift-giving, and family gatherings. However, there are some things you can do to feel less overwhelmed or depressed.

1.     Realize you may not feel the same level of enthusiasm as others.

a.     Prioritize and limit events and celebrations.

b.     Watch avoiding feelings with substance abuse.

c.     Surround yourself with others that feel similarly.

d.     Identify triggers that put you in this mood and their cause and cost.

2.     It can be a time of grief. Or you may feel left out if your spiritual traditions aren’t the dominate ones on display at this time of year.

a.     Remind yourself that as circumstances change, traditions can change.

b.     Don’t force yourself to celebrate.

c.     Let loved ones know how they can support you.

d.     Exercise more.

e.     Be present with the six (Kessler) stages of grief.

3.     Differences created in the Covid area or politics or past experiences during the holidays.

a. Try to see others’ points of view and recognize that we’re all feeling at least a little stressed.

b.     Understand relationships are more important than subjects.

c.     “As long as the reason of man continues fallible, and he is at liberty to exercise it, different opinions will be formed”. James Madison

4.     Gift giving in a financially stressed time.

a.     Stick to an amount.

b.     Give a gift of yourself.

5.     Sunlight deprived. Going to work and coming home in the dark can lead to new or increased symptoms of anxiousness or depression.

a.     Get out in the 1st hour and last hour of day for five minutes and to reset your circadian clock.

b.     SAD – get a light.

6.     Loneliness or isolation.

a.     Consider scheduling a regular call or video chat with someone who makes you feel good.

b.     Practice calming activities, such as reading, meditating, and gratitude journaling.

You can take back the holiday season! Follow me and enjoy the holidays!