If, like many people, you experience stress related to holiday activities, here are a few tips to help you though the season.
Prioritize. Devote your energy to the things that are most important and let go of what is not.
Steer the conversation. If time with your family causes tension (for example because of differences in political views, religious views, etc.), steer the conversation to topics that are less likely to cause disagreements. Ask questions about the things people are looking forward to, favorite memories, music, movies or shows.
Ignore it. If topics that trigger disagreement and anger come up, and you know there is no resolution and it’s not worth your energy to discuss or share your perspective, ignore the conversation. If possible, find a different conversation.
Take a break. If you get overwhelmed, you have every right to excuse yourself to a different room or for a walk outside
Practice gratitude. Thinking about things you are grateful for (even if they are very small) can truly help to increase your baseline mood. Identify “glimmers” throughout the day. Glimmers are small, often ignored moments during the day that, if acknowledged, can help to increase mood.
Ask for help. Talk to a friend, or schedule a therapy appointment. You are never alone, even when it feels like it in the moment.
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