December is in full swing which means the holidays are just around the corner. For some they symbolize a season of hope, joy, and cheer. For many, however, the holidays produce tremendous stress, anxiety, and feelings of depression. Perhaps they are a painful reminder of a loved one lost. Maybe this is the first Christmas following a painful divorce. Maybe you’re having difficulty accepting that certain holiday traditions and rituals may not survive in your new blended family. Or maybe you lay awake at night wondering how you will provide a happy holiday for your children following a recent layoff in the family. Whatever the reason, know that you are not alone in your feelings. You should also know there are steps you can take toward creating a harmonious holiday for the entire family in spite of circumstances.
1. Acknowledge your feelings. Recognize it is ok to feel sad or lonely. It may even be a necessary part of the grieving process if you recently lost someone you love.
2. Set realistic expectations. The holidays won’t necessarily turn out as rosy as they do in our favorite holiday classic movies. Remind yourself you cannot do everything (and neither can your spouse). Set small goals and keep an open mind about compromising some traditions if it means keeping the peace for everyone.
3. Be good to yourself! That may mean going to bed early to fight off fatigue or monitoring your eating and drinking consumption so you don’t overindulge all season long (which only adds to feelings of guilt and depression). Being good to yourself also means taking a few moments each day to just breathe and remember you can do this! You deserve the break.
4. Reach out for professional help. There’s no shame in needing a helping hand through the holidays. It may be just what your family needs to navigate its way through the season.
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