As the holiday season rolls around, not everyone feels giddy and excited about the constant stream of tinsel-filled parties, happy family dinners and presents galore. For some, the holidays can be downright difficult and a dreaded time of the year.
Whether it’s financial strain, family issues, illness, loss of a loved one or something else getting you down, the holidays can be tough! So, make the best out of the season by trying a few tips from the experts.
Set priorities. Give yourself a break. Emphasize the spirit of giving rather than the cost or amount received. Focus on what you can do and appreciate what is good. Your time and thoughtfulness is worth much more than an expensive gift.
Open your home. If you have limited mobility and feel like you’re missing out on holiday events, offer to hold a casual gathering at your place. Worried about providing for your guests? Make it a potluck celebration or afternoon tea. Focus on being with others.
Make a budget. The holidays prompt many people to spend more than they can afford. Make a holiday budget and stick to it. Look for ways to keep the spirit and cut the cost. Consider gifts of service, such as offering a family a home-cooked meal on the day of their choice, in lieu of gifts.
Share the fun. Ask family members and friends for help when preparing meals, buying gifts or entertaining. If friends or loved ones offer assistance or transportation, take them up on it. Checking tasks off your to-do list with a friend can make it feel like more of a fun and enjoyable activity.
Keep your mind active. Sending holiday cards and letters, baking and other activities may prevent the onset of depression and other emotional disorders, according to research.
Stay physically healthy. Maintain healthy habits and routines, including eating right, exercising and getting enough sleep. Be careful not to overindulge in too many sweets or one glass too many of holiday cheer at parties.
Be selective with RSVPs. Engage in activities that have true meaning and perpetuate your happiness – forgo those that are stress provoking.
Grieve. If a friend or family member has recently died, honor his or her memory. Create an altar with pictures of those you love; light candles every night for someone you have lost; play their favorite music and allow yourself to cry, remember and heal.
Manage your stress. Recognize signs of stress and practice stress management strategies. When you begin to get frustrated, breathe, take a break or use relaxation techniques.
Practice patience. The holidays are not likely to change the attitudes of relatives and friends who may be critical from time to time. We all know who they are! Acknowledge these behaviors and plan how you will respond.
Volunteer. If you find yourself with time on your hands and feel left out from the holiday hustle and bustle, offer to help a local organization or even a neighbor or a friend. Not only will you be doing a good thing, but you will also meet new people who share your interests and you will feel good giving your time to a worthy cause.
Laugh. Research indicates using laughter and humor can help one cope with stress, pain or sadness.
Be proactive; take steps to prevent the stress and depression that can challenge you during the holidays. Recognize your holiday triggers, such as personal demands or financial pressure and combat them before they lead to a meltdown. With a little planning and positive thinking, we can all find peace and joy during the holidays.
Liza Fischer is the Patient Support manager for Axis Health System. She can be reached at lfischer@axishealthsystem.org or 335-2206.
