Anxiety Over the Holidays

This holiday season, along with all the others, is supposed to be a time of joy and celebration, but for many people, it can be a source of major stress and high anxiety. Whether it's the pressure to buy the perfect gift, host the perfect party, or just meet the expectations of every single person they know, holidays can be overwhelming.

If you're a living, breathing human being, chances are you are feeling anxious about the holidays, so here are a few tips to help you manage your stress and enjoy the season to its fullest.

Set realistic expectations, whether other people think they are realistic or not. This is for you, not them. The holiday season can be full of pressure to meet certain expectations, whether it's from social media, family, or our own expectations of ourselves. It's important to remember that the holidays don't have to be perfect, and it's okay to let go of some of those expectations. Try to focus on what's truly important to you and let go of the rest.

Take care of yourself. Repeat, yourself. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, but it's important to make time for self-care. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthily, and take breaks when you need them. This includes a nap from time to time. Naps are approved activities for all ages. It's also a good idea to carve out some time for activities that you enjoy, whether it's reading a book, going for a walk, or spending time with friends.

Set boundaries. These do not need to be huge unattainable boundaries, just basic boundaries to protect yourself. The holiday season can be a busy time, and it's easy to overcommit yourself to events and obligations. It's okay to say no if you don't have the time or energy for something, and it's important to prioritize what's most important to you. It's also okay to ask for help if you're feeling overwhelmed. Think of it this way; if someone else asks you for something, it is okay to ask them for something.

Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of focusing on the present moment and letting go of worries about the past or future. This can be tricky to master, but very beneficial in the long term. It can be helpful to take a few minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on your breath, or to take a few deep breaths when you're feeling overwhelmed. There are several different apps on phones now that can remind you to stop and breathe from time to time, just to help you focus.

Seek support. If you're feeling overwhelmed or anxious about the holidays, it can be helpful to talk to someone about it. It does not need to be an official appointment with a therapist, it can be a simple cup of coffee with some friends. You can also join a support group or seek help from a mental health professional if you think you need more time. There are some excellent support groups online and many insurance companies cover these groups in full!

Remember that the holiday season is just a few weeks out of the entire year, and it's important to take care of yourself first so that you can be there for others. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it and try to focus on what's truly important to you. With a little self-care and a lot of gratitude, you can make it through the holidays and come out feeling happier and more balanced.

Until Next Time. #KristinaWrites