If you already suffer from anxiety, the holidays can just add more pressure. The holidays include a dizzying array of pressures, such as parties, shopping, cleaning, cooking, and entertaining family. Well, instead of getting overly stressed about these things, you can actually enjoy them! We have a couple tips to help keep your stress levels down and let you have just as much fun as your guests this year!

When stress is already peaking, it can be hard to stop and regroup, so try to prevent stress and depression in the first place.

1. Acknowledge how you feel. The holidays don’t always bring about happy memories. Perhaps you have lost someone or perhaps not all your loved ones can be with you. It’s okay to be sad. Take time to cry or express your feelings. 2. Reach out. If you start to feel a sense of loneliness or isolation, seek out community, religious, or other social events. You might not be extremely close to these people, but companionship can often help. Also, volunteering your time is a great way to lift your spirits and meet new people. 

3. Be realistic. The holidays do not have to be perfect. Families change and grow, which means traditions and rituals change as well. Choose a few you really want to hold on to, but be open to new traditions as well. 

4. Set aside differences. Remember most people are just as stressed as you are during this season. Accept family members as they are and be understanding if others get upset about things. Also, the holidays are not the time to bring up grievances. Wait until a less stressful time. 

5. Stick to a budget. The holidays can be expensive, which often puts extra stress on people. Before you do any gift or food shopping, set a budget for yourself. Remember that you can’t buy happiness! Try these alternatives: donate to a charity in someone’s name, make a gift, or start a family gift exchange, like Secret Santa. 

6. Plan ahead. So much of holiday stress is caused by having so much to do and so little time to do it! Set aside specific days for shopping, baking, visiting friends, parties, etc. Plan your menus and shopping lists. Being organized will help prevent last minute scrambling. 

7. Learn to say no. There is always someone asking for a favor around the holidays. It is important to be able to say “no.” Agreeing to too many things can leave you feeling overwhelmed and resentful. Friends will understand if you can’t participate in every activity. 

8. Don’t abandon healthy habits. Just because it’s the holidays that doesn’t mean you throw out your normal schedule. Try to eat healthy snacks and keep your normal work out routine. This will help keep your body healthy and relieve a lot of stress. 

9. Take a breather. Don’t forget about yourself during this time. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may be just the refreshing time you need! Take a walk at night or listen to soothing music. Try to find something that clears your mind, slows your breathing, and restores your sense of peace. 

10. Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, you might still find yourself completely overwhelmed causing anxiety and depression. If you find yourself unable to sleep, irritable, feeling hopeless, and unable to face daily routines, consider talking to a counselor. It is a great way to help you feel better and enjoy your holidays!

The holidays are very stressful. It’s important to take care of yourself so you can make those great memories as well! At Solace Counseling, your emotional and physical health is our utmost concern. If you find yourself suffering from anxiety or depression, feel free to contact us. We are happy to help in any way. For more tips on dealing with stress and anxiety, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.