Many people find the holidays a delightful, upbeat time of year. But for others, the holidays – that time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s – can be a lonely, stressful time of year.
Feelings of sadness, low energy, and wistfulness can be hard to cope with, particularly if you’ve lost a family member or friend at this time of year. Or feelings of loneliness may be present if some of your family members will be away and won’t make it home for the holidays this year.
If you are feeling empty or sad during the holidays while everyone around you seems to be having fun, you can make practical changes that allow you to feel less stressed and more relaxed.
First, it is important to recognize stressors that may lead to feeling blue and overstressed. Try to work on reducing these stressors throughout the year so the holidays will be more joyful.
Next, recognize that you can choose a new way of thinking that reduces holiday stress and sadness.
Keep in mind that unrealistic perceptions and expectations are part of every holiday season. Some people feel so stressed and anxious at this time of year they want to be left alone. But you can work on having a new attitude of looking forward to joining in the festivities of the season.
If you have battled anxiety, stress, and low energy during the holidays, you are probably looking for a respite from a variety of stressors that can make life miserable.
Think of stress this way: stress is crucial if you are in a crisis. Stress is a natural and important biological “fight or flight” response. The body is designed for short bursts of activity, but the ongoing nature of daily stress often means that the system is left ‘on’ to respond.
Use these tips to make this holiday season the best it can be – a season of less stress and more meaning for you and your family.
1. Take care of yourself by eating right. People tend to skip meals, eat on the run, and eat more sugar during the holidays. Manage stress by managing your health.
2. Give yourself permission to feel a mix of emotions during the holidays. Most people feel an ebb and flow of emotions throughout the year but often more so during holidays because it is a season that evokes memories of the past.
3. It is okay to spend time taking care of yourself. When you do, you’ll be more apt to relax and enjoy the season. People have different levels of needs so pay attention to your own unique circumstances.
4. Give yourself permission to have more control in your life. You don’t have to say ‘yes’ to every holiday invitation or request.
5. Time management is very important for reducing stress. For example, let some of your children or grandchildren prepare holiday meals, bake cookies or help decorate the house.
Mark Underwood is a neuroscience researcher, president, and co-founder of Quincy Bioscience, a biotech company located in Madison, Wisconsin focused on the discovery and development of
medicines to treat age related memory loss and the diseases of aging. Visit www.TheGoodNewsAboutAging.com for more articles and tips for healthy aging.
