Dealing with Anxiety Over the Holidays
The pressures of the holiday season can be difficult to bear and can cause everyone to be anxious. Whether you have lost a loved one, returned from serving your country, added a new baby to your family or are simply dealing with stressful situations in your daily living, acknowledging the challenges of the season and developing a game plan for how you will address those challenges can make the difference for a happy and merry holiday season.
Map Out Your Schedule.
Plan your holiday commitments based on what you feel comfortable with, with whom and where you choose. It?s okay to decline that third party invitation or event you don?t really want to attend. The people in your life that care about you will understand and respect your decision. Instead, consider having smaller, more intimate gatherings with family and friends.
MinimizeTriggers.
Identify situations or people that trigger negative physical or emotional response, and minimize your exposure to these triggers. If crowded environments are difficult for you, consider online shopping. If the thought of air travel makes you uncomfortable, plan ahead to drive. The point is simply to know your boundaries and stay within them.
Manage Your Emotions.
Put coping strategies in place for each emotional response you may experience ? fear, loneliness, sadness, overwhelmed. Some experts recommend deep breathing techniques, yoga, meditating or journaling. Developing healthy coping strategies will also prevent the development of unhealthy coping strategies such as alcohol and substance use.
Facing the feelings and symptoms associated with anxiety and stress are difficult at any time, but often are exacerbated around the holidays. Surround yourself with people who are committed to helping you through it, including seeking the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if necessary. With positive support and a game plan in place, the holiday season can be filled with joyful experiences and lasting pleasing memories.
