Holiday Cheer

The holidays are approaching and is generally a fun time of year, eagerly anticipated, and filled with celebration and social gatherings with family and friends. It can also be a time filled with grief, sadness, loneliness, and anxiety. Balancing the demands of the season may contribute to feelings of being overwhelmed and stressed and can become problematic.

Tips for coping with holiday stress and depression:

1. Make realistic expectations for the holiday season.
2. Pace yourself. Do not take on more than you can handle.
3. Make a list and prioritize activities.
4. Be realistic about what you can and can't do.
5. Be present.
6. Choose to be optimistic about the future.
7. Volunteer your time and talents.
8. Enjoy holiday decorations, the changing of the seasons, and all that nature has to offer.
9. Set boundaries with yourself to limit alcohol, calorie intake, and shopping. Practice moderation in eating, drinking, and spending.
10. Reach out to people and connect.
11. Be creative and find fun ways to spread holiday cheer!
12. Let others share the responsibilities of holiday tasks. Don't try to do it all yourself.
13. Make sleep and exercise a priority. You are not a machine. Take care of yourself.
    
14. Find meaning and connect with that deeper meaning and something beyond and outside of yourself. This can be religious, spiritual,  service or something else.