Holiday Stress Busters

Just like many of you the holiday season has added many things to my already full To Do List. The things that bring eustress or good stress over the Holidays (i.e time with family, traveling, decorating, looking at lights, family traditions) can also be the things that bring distress. What things stress you out about the holiday? In a mental health of America study 40% who responded reported financial, 37 % reported memories, and 34% reported too many activities. How do you stay organized and sane during these months of parties, shopping, wrapping, and going to the post office?

• Make realistic expectations for the holiday season and set realistic goals for yourself.
• Pace yourself. Do not take on more responsibilities than you can handle.
• Do not put all your energy into just one day (for example, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve). The holiday cheer can be spread from one holiday event to the next.
• Don't set yourself up for disappointment and sadness by comparing today with the "good old days" of the past.
• If you are lonely, try volunteering some of your time to help others.
• Find holiday activities that are free, such as looking at holiday decorations, going window shopping without buying, and watching the winter weather, whether it's a snowflake or a raindrop.
• Spend time with supportive and caring people.
• Reach out and make new friends.
• Be the boss of your own time. Pick and choose activities that you want to do instead of what you think others expect you to do.

You are in control of how you handle situations. Know that you choose to be stressed or to enjoy the holidays to the fullest!