Whether celebrating religious holidays or just the end of the year, December is packed with end-of-year deadlines, goals to meet, employees on vacation - staff shortage, preparations for friend and/or family visits, holiday parties/family dinners/gatherings, gift shopping and a multitude of other activities. All this may lead to a great deal of stress and depression.
Here are some helpful tips on how to navigate potential end-of-year/holiday stressors:
- Maintain your regular routine. A change in routine can lead to added stress. Try to keep your regular schedule: work/school routine, bed at your regular time, exercise/other leisure interest(s)..and try to maintain healthy habits – be mindful of overindulging which will only cause more stress, and guilt.
- Be realistic. Try to set realistic expectations. The holidays do not have to be perfect or just like it has been in previous years. So, before you begin your preparations, acknowledge that things may not go exactly as planned. It’s okay if it’s not perfect. Also, families change and grow and so do traditions and rituals. Choose a few to hold on to, but also be open to creating new ones.
- Plan ahead. Set aside a specific day/time to accomplish all your necessary tasks. Ask for help. Delegate. Get everyone, whether its colleagues at work, or family & friends, involved in the preparation/planning. Adopt a team approach.
- Learn to say no. Know that you cannot participate in every project or activity. And it is okay to decline invitations to social gathering. Do what feels comfortable for you. You do not need to put unreasonable pressure on yourself to please everyone. Remember to maintain your boundaries.
- Plan ‘me’ time. Carve out time for self-care. Engage in a pleasurable activity that allows you to slow down, relax and refresh….take a walk, meditate, listen to music, read a book, to name a few.
- Respond, not react. Try to remember that others may be feeling the effects of holiday stress as well. Also, while this time of the year brings much excitement for some, others are experiencing sadness and sorrow. Be mindful of how you interact with others. Accept others for who they are and maintain an open mind. Listen – Pause – Process – Respond with empathy and care.
- Don’t lose sight of what really matters. When feeling overwhelmed, ask yourself: Where does this fit in the grand scheme of things? If you are frustrated because you are waiting in a long line – remind yourself, it is only a line. Don’t let that spoil your day. Can I use this moment to reflect? As you are waiting to cash out, reflect on the positives of the day. Can I find a way to make this moment less overwhelming? Consider connecting with someone else in line – extend a kind word, or, take a few deep breaths and chose to be at peace while waiting – remember, you have choices over what you can control.
- Reach out. Despite what may seem like an influx of social interactions (family/friend gatherings, holiday parties, mall/grocery trips), feelings of isolation and loneliness typically spike between October and January. If you feel lonely or isolated, consider volunteering with a local organization, check in on an elderly neighbor, seek out community, religious or other social events. Connect with someone.
Know it’s okay to feel how you are feeling, and that others are likely going through similar stressors this time of the year. Be gently with yourself and others. Take steps to prevent the stress and depression that descend during this season. Proper planning and positive thinking will help you find peace this year end/holiday season.
Have a peaceful season!
If you or someone you know is in need of immediate help, call or text 988.