It’s November and the holiday season is upon us. Although there’s a lot of happy anticipation for celebrations at the end of this difficult year, for many of us there’s more than a little dread underlying our feelings. Holidays can be stressful, even painful, during the best of times. We can all agree this year is far from the best of times and this year’s holiday season looks to be particularly challenging.

After all, this is the first holiday season since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of people will choose to stay home to reduce the risk of getting or spreading the virus, leading to feelings of loneliness for some and isolation for others.[1] Consider as well that the holidays are often times when we remember those loved ones who are no longer with us.

If you’re looking to reduce your holiday stress, consider these tips:

  1. Try to keep your expectations in line with the unique limitations and challenges this year presents. We all may need to take our expectations down a few notches, or at least keep them balanced. This year is an unusually stressful time. It’s better to narrow down Christmas plans and have a wonderful time than overextend yourself and get stressed out.
  2. Take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, balance out holiday indulges with healthy foods and go easy on holiday imbibing. Try to get in motion for 30 minutes five or more times a week. You don’t have to train for the Olympics; a slow walk will help boost your energy and mood.
  3. This is tough for many of us. Ask for help getting things done and you won’t feel like the whole holiday’s needs are falling on you.
  4. Stay healthy by being COVID savvy. Observe state and local guidelines on avoiding COVID-19, but don’t forget basics like getting a flu shot.
  5. Set a budget for spending and don’t overshoot it. The best gift to give during the season is your presence, not a present.
  6. Honor your feelings. Sometimes people think they shouldn’t feel sad during the holidays, as they’re supposed to be celebrations, but it’s important to allow yourself to fully experience the emotions you’re feeling. Many people mourn during the holidays for those they’ve lost, and that’s completely valid.
  7. Plan ahead when possible. Because of COVID-19, spontaneity is going to be limited this holiday season.

You don’t have to burn out this holiday season. If you’re wondering how you’ll get through the holiday months, Damaris Aragon, ARNP, BC provides a full spectrum of mental health care to people in Spokane, Washington, and surrounding areas. She focuses on providing personalized, compassionate care that adheres to current evidence-based standards. Reach out to Damaris through her contact page or calling 509-342-6592.

 

 

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html