|
|
 |
Holiday Stress
|
Contents:
|
 |
About Holiday Stress
The holidays can be stressful for everyone to some extent. For those
who actively participate in holiday celebrations, shopping preparations
and family events can be overwhelming. Many people feel out-of-sync
with the hustle and bustle of the season. Those who do not celebrate
Christmas or Hanukkah, may feel excluded or imposed upon. A person who
has recently suffered a loss, trauma, or illness may find it difficult
to carry on the usual traditions. Even the most well-intentioned reunions
can induce tensions, fights, and miscommunications.
Some Strategies to Deal with Holiday Stress
and Blues:
- Acknowledge intense feelings.
Give yourself permission to feel depressed, angry, sad or lonely.
Cope with these feelings through talking, exercising, and writing.
Avoid situations that stress or upset you. If you feel obligated
to attend a gathering where you feel uncomfortable, plan to stay
a short time. While those around you may be overindulging in food
or drink, you can make conscious choices about whether or how much
you consume. If you are in recovery, seek out extra meetings and/or
drug/alcohol free events. Remember, the holiday season will soon
be over; the passage of time will help you get back to normal.
- Get support.
Try not to isolate yourself completely. To avoid loneliness, plan
to be with friends or volunteer in your community to help those less
fortunate than yourself.
If you're far from your loved ones, use the phone, or stay in contact
through cards or email.
- Don't overlook your own needs.
Have fun. Expose yourself to humor. Give at a level that feels comfortable
to you (in terms of time, money, and energy). Prioritize your time;
don't overwhelm yourself with too much to do. Even though this is
a time of "giving to others," give yourself plenty of self-care
and attention, including rest and quiet time.
Related Services at the Tang Center
If you are feeling anxious about any aspect of the upcoming season
or if you feel the "blues" are drifting into depression,
call CARE Services for Faculty and Staff, the campus faculty and staff
assistance program, at 643-7754 for more suggestions or an individual
appointment. See Twelve-Step
Programs on or near campus for the current schedule of meetings.
Back to Care Services home page >
|
|
Contact Info
Join Our Team
