Christmas Stress

 

Christmas and the holidays usually bring joy: the pleasure of meeting and sharing with family and friends. However, for some, the fun can be overshadowed by sadness, and for others, stress and anxiety can abound.

There is no doubt that the holidays change the family routine in most households. Unrealistic expectations that are sometimes impossible to meet with certain loved ones can certainly increase tension.
The purchase of holiday gifts can become a nightmare. Making dinner and organizing the house for the guests can result in anxiety and pain, especially if you don’t have someone to help you with the work.
Fortunately there are things you can do to reduce holiday stress:

• Find someone to spend time with: If you feel sad or hopeless, look for a person in your family, a friend, a group or social club or a person in your church to keep you company. During the holidays there are many events going on, and organizations are usually looking for volunteers to help organize meetings and parties.

• Accept reality: Humans live in constant change. Families grow and change. It may be that you can no longer meet with family for some reason. The search for alternatives and new ways to enjoy this time is extremely important.

• Put your differences aside: Sometimes there are conflicts and quarrels among family and friends, and this can affect your mood. Christmas may be the time to forget these differences and improve the relationships.

• Protect your health above all: Often people eat and drink until they drop. If you give free rein to holiday pies, butter, pork, and, especially alcohol, your own body will send you the bill later. Not only can you get sick, but you may also feel more stressed and even guilty.

• Plan and organize your time: Take some time to plan and do not leave everything for the last minute. We all know very well how overwhelming it is to go to a mall a few days before Christmas.

• Take time for yourself: It is important to find time to relax and get away a little from the Christmas rush. Find a quiet place, listen to soothing music, and do deep breathing exercises.

If anything and everything you do cannot reduce your stress or depressive symptoms, seek professional help. Contact a mental health professional in your area. Remember: Your mental and emotional health are important.

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