3 Ways to Survive the Holidays
The holiday season brings a bucket full of emotions. You can feel excited and happy, while at the same time stressed and overwhelmed. Holidays can be a time to be with family, or a time where you feel most alone. How can you get through the holidays, while also being PRESENT in the holidays?
Find peace, gratitude and perspective
Journal
You do not need to go buy a fancy journal and dedicate 30 minutes a day to journaling (unless you want to – it’s actually amazing). However, making space in your day for even a few minutes can provide you clarity and focus. Take a moment to jot down your top 3 things you most look forward to in the holiday season. Express any areas of worry or concern. Leave your feelings on the paper, not in your head!
Service
Often, we get caught up in our “own world”, instead of taking a step back to see how greatly vast the world is. Find an opportunity to sacrifice your time or your money to serve other people. Serve food at a homeless shelter. Volunteer with an organization that serves those less fortunate than you. Give gift cards to teachers. You can serve alone or get your family and friends to join you. Even the smallest gesture can shine a beautiful light in someone’s life.
Scale Back
Ok, ok, I know this is not everyone’s favorite topic, but hear me out. You DO NOT need to do everything that Instagram influencer is telling you to do for the holidays! Your life will not be more complete by appearing to do all holiday cooking by scratch, decorating your house with the newest décor, etc. Choose your top 3 activities that you and your family want to do this holiday season. It might be baking cookies, or seeing a Christmas play, or watching your favorite Christmas movies. Whatever you and/or your family decide, that’s what matters. No one else is going to care that you didn’t do “all the things.”
Holidays should not be a time for “surviving” but rather a time for celebration. If you feel like you are dreading the impending season, I encourage you to reflect on how you can step back to focus on what’s truly important for you and your family. Memories can play an important role in your anticipation or expectations of the season too. If you feel as if you are struggling with grief, sadness or anxiety, reach out for help. You do not need to go through the holidays unsupported.
Disclaimer: This is in no way a replacement for a therapeutic relationship or mental health services. This is for educational purposes only and should be in used only in conjunction in working with a licensed mental health professional. Reading this blog or responding to it does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. If you are looking for a local mental health professional feel free to use the contact tab to request an appointment or search Psychology Today for local therapists in your area. If this is a mental health emergency and you need immediate assistance please call 911 or your county’s crisis line to speak to a mental health professional.
