Photo: Getty Images
Many people suffer from stress and depression during the holidays. Often, the demands of the holidays -- the shopping, cooking, decorating, cleaning, entertaining, traveling, dealing with relatives, etc. -- added to the stressors of normal life become too much. Here are a some tips to help us cope with holiday stress:
- Talk with someone. It could help to talk with a trusted friend or family member. There are also a variety of religious or social groups and events that can provide support and companionship for anyone who may feel isolated or lonely during the holidays. Doing something for someone else can also lift one's spirits, perhaps volunteering to help the needy or maybe making a meal for someone who is sick.
- Perfection is not necessary. It's okay if things are not perfect or better than what was done last year. Families and circumstances change. Be open to trying new things, maybe setting up new holiday traditions.
- Be forgiving and kind. Try to set aside any grievances and differences and enjoy the association with family and friends. Speak and act kindly, after all, they are probably feeling the stresses of the season as well.
- Set a budget and stick with it before you do any shopping, whether it's for food or gifts. Try giving handmade gifts or establish a family gift exchange to decrease the financial pressure of the holidays.
- Make plans. Make arrangements for connecting with friends and family, decide when to do your shopping, decide on menus and shopping lists in advance to avoid the stress of last-minute shopping for forgotten items. Delegate responsibilities! That way you'll have help for cooking or cleanup if entertaining.
- Don't take on more than you can handle. Prioritize the more important activities and events. Others will understand if you can't do everything.
- Get plenty of sleep so you can rest and recharge emotionally. It's hard to maintain a positive frame of mind when suffering from exhaustion.
- Make time for yourself. Take a break and do something you enjoy away from distractions, perhaps taking a quiet walk, sitting and listening to soothing music, or yoga. Clear your mind and breath slowly and deeply to relax and restore calm.
- Decrease your exposure to the news and social media, much of which is negative and can produce anxiety.
- Get professional help if, despite everything, you are still struggling with depression or anxiety and have trouble handling day-to-day activities. See a doctor, mental health professional, or reach out to a support group in your community.
There is also a 24/7 crisis line offering a nonjudgmental sounding board for people to talk about life’s struggles. Trained phone workers are available to offer a listening ear and to provide community resources and crisis intervention. Call 864-271-8888 in Greenville or 864-582-1100 in Spartanburg. You are NOT ALONE!