The holidays are just around the corner. Perhaps they snuck up on you this year, or maybe you have been looking forward to them for months. Avoiding stress, depression, and relapse during the holiday season can be challenging, and for good reason!
Common sources of holiday stress include the following:
- Financial worries
- Trying to make the holiday special for everyone
- The pressure of family expectations
- Having to spend time with family members with whom you disagree
- Loneliness, especially if you are away from family
- Major changes in routine and lifestyle
At Women’s Recovery, we offer a depression treatment program in addition to other outpatient treatment programs for behavioral health disorders. Call 833.754.0554 today for more information, especially if you or a loved one need help getting through the holidays.
How to Deal with Winter Stress
Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce stress during the holidays. Here are some tips to help you avoid stress, depression, and relapse:
Set Realistic Expectations
Avoid overextending yourself or expecting too much from those around you. Family, in particular, can be a significant source of stress. The pressure of overt or implicit expectations can cause anxiety or even drive someone toward relapse. Knowing this in advance can help, and setting realistic expectations for yourself so that you do not overextend or overcommit can make the holidays more enjoyable.
Avoid Overindulging
Food and alcohol, along with shopping, are intrinsic to the holidays. It can be too easy to channel stress and anxiety into overindulgence. Avoiding overindulgence in food, alcohol, gifts, and activities can help you stay mindful of the present moment and reduce stress.
Stay Connected
Staying connected with like-minded people can help reduce stress, depression, and the risk of relapse. Reach out to family members or friends with whom you have a good relationship and make plans to connect. If you cannot see family or friends in person, consider connecting via video call or phone. Additionally, contacting a therapist or a 12-step sponsor when necessary is also an excellent way to avoid potential problems during the holidays.
Engage in Self Care
It’s essential to take care of yourself during these stressful times. Avoid overdoing things and make sure you get enough rest, exercise, and nourishing food, including drinking plenty of water. Additionally, try to find time for activities that are enjoyable and bring you peace of mind, such as reading a book, taking a walk in nature, listening to music, writing in a journal, or enjoying an online yoga class.
Do Not Compare Yourself to Others
Avoid comparing yourself to others during the holidays. Comparison can lead to insecurity and low self-esteem, so it is best to stay away from this trap. With the influx of holiday advertisements and images of perfect families, it is easy to get caught up in the idealized version of the holidays. Avoiding comparison can help you enjoy and appreciate what you have and reduce stress.
At Women’s Recovery in Colorado, we understand that the holiday season can be stressful and emotionally challenging. Be mindful of your environment and the people around you, and take breaks when needed.
Reach Out to Women’s Recovery to Avoid Stress, Depression, and Relapse During the Holidays
If you are struggling to manage your holiday stress, Women’s Recovery in Colorado offers a variety of behavioral health treatment programs that can help. Their knowledgeable team of professionals is dedicated to helping individuals regain control of their lives and lead healthier, happier lives during the holidays and beyond. Call 833.754.0554 or contact us online to learn more.
No matter what this holiday season brings, remember that you are not alone in your struggles, and help is available. Avoiding stress, depression, and relapse during the holidays doesn’t have to be a challenge. With these tips in mind, you can make the most of this special time of year.
