Coping Over the Holidays

Home for the holidays isn’t always as it appears in a Hallmark movie. For many families, the holidays bring considerable anxiety and a fear of the unknown. Whether you have a family member returning home from a residential program or have a child coming home for school/college winter break, changes in environment, schedule, and routine can bring significant unpredictability. Below are some suggestions to feel more prepared as you enter this busy holiday season.

1. Stick to a schedule: make a loose and casual itinerary so all family members are aware of what can be expected over the holiday stretch. Preview plans and activities with family members to ensure everyone can process what is on the agenda.

   
   

2. Prioritize self-care: Schedule time for downtime & relaxation, exercise, healthy eating, and activities you enjoy, even if it’s just a short break during the day. Some family members may require assistance with coming up with ideas on what downtime looks like for them. Block self-care time and activities in your calendar so you don’t neglect the time needed to recharge.

   
   

3. Say no when needed: Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries! Don’t be afraid to decline external invitations or commitments that will overwhelm you and your family. Or, if it’s decided that one or two family members are best staying back home while others attend these commitments, that is okay too. Do what is best for you.

   
   

4. Manage your time: Don’t bite off more than you can chew! Create a plan for holiday tasks like shopping, cooking, and socializing to avoid feeling rushed. Schedule these plans and tasks in your calendar so that you don’t overbook yourself with other commitments.

   
   

5. Limit social media: Reduce exposure to unrealistic holiday portrayals on social media to prevent comparisons and stress. Let’s not forget that social media is a “highlight reel” of someone’s best moments. No one wants to show the depths of what actually goes on

   
   

6. Communicate openly:Talk to family and friends about your needs and expectations during the holidays. Identifying one or two people you can confide in about how you’re feeling will help ease some of that tension that can be hard to carry.

   
   

7. Practice mindfulness:Engage in meditation or deep breathing exercises to manage stress and stay present. There are great options available on YouTube. Some of my favorite accounts for guided meditation and visualization are The Honest Guys and Dr. Jennifer Andrews.