Holiday Stress

The December holiday season is often portrayed as a happy time of glistening fireplaces, flawless family gatherings, bountiful food and gifts, and personal reflection. For many, however, those expectations are unrealistic and overwhelming, and loneliness, restricted finances and unwanted social demands result in stress, a sense of loss, and depression.

Feelings of stress and depression can be overcome. Try some of these 12 pre-emptive strategies to help make the holidays a joyous time not to be missed.

• Acknowledge Your Feelings
• Seek Support from People Who Care about You
• Be Realistic
• Set Differences Aside
• Stick to a Budget
• Plan Ahead
• Learn to Say No
• Don’t Abandon Healthy Habits
• Take a Breather
• Rethink Resolutions
• Forget about Perfection
• Seek Professional Help if You Need It

Resource: Mayo Clinic - Article: Stress, depression and the holidays: 12 tips for coping – mayoclinic.com

The Coping with the Holidays brochure is a community resource intended to offer you some helpful tips that may reduce stress during the holidays. Its suggestions are not intended to be all inclusive. More information is available at Lorain County Board of Mental Health Public Information Department - (440) 233-2020.