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How to Minimize Holiday Stress

Janet Robinson
Oct 29, 2015
2 min read

The holiday season is fast approaching and with it often comes stress and even emotional upheaval. Knowing how to deal with this is important. There are many who do not enjoy the holidays for a number of reasons. They may be grieving the loss of a loved one, experiencing unemployment, coping with addictions, and so on. Many feel anxious knowing they will be facing difficult people during the many gatherings. First of all, ask yourself what you want from the holidays. For many it is a way to express their faith. For others, it is an opportunity to get together with friends and family. The holidays should not be about going into debt or having to endure uncomfortable situations. It should be a chance to celebrate and enjoy each others’ company. Keep this in mind when making your plans. For those who have lost a loved one it can be extremely difficult. It is one of the many landmarks throughout the year that can bring great sadness and emotional turmoil. Be gentle with yourself and don’t feel that you have to keep the traditions you and your loved one shared unless you really want to. It will not be a disaster if you choose not to decorate the house or host a large family dinner. Let others take over. Some people feel more comfortable being with only one or two people at a time and that’s fine. Gatherings can be a challenge for those coping with addictions. First of all, you do not have to accept every invitation, especially if you know there will be things to tempt you. If you do go, it’s a good idea to have someone who knows your situation be with you for support and to watch out for you. You also have the option of attending for only a few minutes and then leaving. Avoiding debt should be everyone’s goal. Our focus should be on those we love and just being with them. More and more people have opted out of gift-giving altogether and participate in meaningful activities instead. This could include visiting people in nursing homes, providing all the necessities for a holiday meal for a needy family, or going for a sleigh ride out in the country after a snowfall. Why buy things people don’t want and don’t need when there are so many other options? But if you do decide to buy gifts, keep them simple and inexpensive and limit the number of gifts you buy and the number of people you buy for. Teach your children at an early age that “stuff” is not important, people are. Setting boundaries may be necessary when you know you will encounter difficult people. If someone is downright belligerent to you, you do not have to invite them to your home. Stay close to positive people at parties, and if you’re uncomfortable, you can always leave. The holidays should not be stressful. With a little preparation, you can get through them and even enjoy them.