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Coping with Christmas: Winter Blues Survival Guide
For most people the Christmas period is a special fun time of year when family and friends get together to party and celebrate, but for some it can be a time of increased stress and anxiety which may lead to depression, irritability, sleeplessness and exhaustion. For others where there are family conflicts, divorce, or the recent death of a loved one, the holiday period may cause feelings of loneliness, grief and mourning.
Holiday season-related depression and anxiety should not be ignored and we must understand that we are all different, so what makes one person feel sad may not affect someone else.
Here are our top ten tips to help minimise the stress and anxiety of the festive period and increase the chances of a happier healthier Christmas…
- Have realistic expectations. Decide which expectations are achievable and which are not. Do not be too hard on yourself if it is not possible to do everything. Take the festive spirit as it comes.
- Look after yourself. Get plenty of sleep and exercise regularly to improve your mood and reduce stress.
- Avoid overbooking your time. Don’t feel you have to attend all social gatherings or stay to the very end. Balance your time carefully to avoid increasing your anxiety.
- Avoid distractions. Turn off your mobile phone, computer, ipad to enjoy the company of your family and friends while they are with you.
- Delegate responsibility. If the family are coming to you for Christmas do not assume you have to do everything yourself. Ask for help to prevent feeling overwhelmed.
- Plan new traditions. If the usual routine of Christmas fills you with dread rather than joy try something different. It could be going out to a restaurant for Christmas dinner or donating to charity instead of exchanging presents or carrying out some voluntary work over the Christmas holiday.
- Set aside differences. Try to accept family members and friends as they are. Sort out family conflicts and grievances at another time.
- Stick to a budget. Before buying all your gifts decide on a budget that’s right for you. Financial stress will only increase your anxiety. Remember it is the thought gone into choosing the gift that counts not its monetary value.
- If you are missing a loved one plan a positive activity to remember and celebrate their life.
- Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, if you find yourself still feeling sad, anxious, having physical complaints and unable to sleep, talk to a mental health professional.
If you are in need of support and help over the Christmas period contact Inspirational Winners for friendly help and advice.
For more information, please contact us at [email protected]