“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!”Or is it?
From a Biblical/Christian perspective, absolutely! A time to remember God’s gift to this world, His own dear son, our Lord Jesus Christ! Christmas Carols, nativity plays all resonate with the truth of this account.
However, as real as the Biblical narrative is, there is another truth that tends to rear its head more than usual at this time of year for many, and that is stress, depression and/or other associated mental health issues.
The holidays often present a longer-than-usual to-do list of demands — cooking meals, shopping, baking, cleaning and entertaining, to name just a few. Of course, with COVID-19’s sting still being felt in many ways additional stress may be felt across the board.
So, how can one navigate this challenging time of the year in a healthy manner? What are some tips to minimise the stress that accompanies the holidays?
Tips to prevent holiday stress and depression
The old adage “Prevention is better than cure” rings true in this context. When stress is at its peak, it's hard to stop and regroup. Attempting to prevent stress and depression in the first place is the better path to go down.
1. Acknowledge your feelings. If for any reason, you cannot be with loved ones at this time of the year, due to geographical distance or even worse, the passing of someone near and dear, there’s bound to be feeling of sadness and grief. That is OK! It's OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can't force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.
2. Reach out.
If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community. Get connected with others through local church or community events. Many organisations would welcome you reaching out to them.Support and companionship can be found through these.
Feeling stressed? Call or text a friend or family member.
Volunteering your time or doing something to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and expand your friendship circles.
3. Be realistic. Things may not look the same as they did last year; that’s OK. The holidays don't have to be perfect. Even though those plans may look different this year, you can find ways to celebrate.
4. Set aside differences. There’s always going to be that family member that rubs you up the wrong way. Be open to accepting them ‘warts and all’ (easier said than done, I know). Perhaps agree to disagree and set aside grievances until a more appropriate time for discussion.
5. Stick to a budget. Prior to gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend and then stick to your budget. Your kids will prefer your presence to your presents if they had a choice!
6. Plan ahead. Any form of pre-planning that reduces the last minute running around is a good thing.
7. Learn to say no. You dont have to say ‘yes’ to every demand on your time. Where it cannot be avoided (eg. work) then decide on what you need to let go of in order to make room for the extra demand.
8. Don't abandon healthy habits. Holidays can be an excuse to over-indulge, but remember this only leads to added stress and guilt (not to mention an increased waist line). Everything in moderation.
9. Take a breather. Be sure to time ot from the hustle and bustle for you. Self-care, while always important is much needed tis time of the year.Slowing down is crucial.
10. Seek professional help if you need it. Remember, you are not invincible, and despite best efforts, you may still have moments of feeling overwhelmed, irritable and even hopeless. If thes feelings persist, book in with your GP or Counsellor and talk it through.
It’s my prayer, as I pen these tips, that you are indeed able to take control of this holiday season, and not it controlling you. Staying focused on those things that are truly important and at the risk of sounding redundant, remembering the true Reason for the season, peace, hope, joy and love can indeed be experienced this season and in the ones to come.
Blessings
Wayne
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