The holiday season at times carries unwelcome guests — stress and depression. And it’s no wonder. The holidays often give a dizzying array of requirements — from cooking meals to shopping, baking, cleaning, and entertaining. And with the current pandemic situation, you may feel additional stress by worrying about your loved ones’ well-being.
With some practical tips, you can alleviate the stress that accompanies the holidays. You may even end up rejoicing the holidays more than you imagined. This holiday season, manage stress effectively with JoyScore. Follow us for more insights on living a stress-free life.
Tips to prevent holiday stress and depression
When stress is at its maximum, it’s hard to stop and regroup. Try to prevent anxiety and depression in the first place.
Reach out. Seek community or other social events or gatherings if you feel lonely or isolated. Many may have websites, support groups, social media sites, or virtual events. They can offer support and companionship. It may also help to talk to a friend or family member about your anxiety. Try reaching out with a message, a call, or a video chat.
Volunteering your time or helping others also is an excellent way to level up your spirits and strengthen your friendship. For instance, consider dropping off a meal and dessert at a friend’s home.
Be realistic. As families change and become nuclear, traditions change as well. Choose a few to carry out and be open to creating new ones. For instance, find new ways to celebrate together, such as exchanging photos, emails, or videos, if your kids or other relatives can’t come to your house. Or catch up on a virtual video call. Find ways to celebrate, even though your holiday plans might look different this year.
Stick to a budget. Don’t attempt to buy happiness with an avalanche of presents. Try these alternatives:
- Donate to a charity in someone’s name.
- Give homemade gifts.
- Start a family gift exchange.
Don’t abandon healthy habits. Let the holidays not become an excuse to indulge. Overindulgence adds to your stress and guilt. Try these suggestions:
- Don’t go overboard on sweets, cheese, or drinks.
- Eat healthy meals.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Include physical exercises in your daily routine.
- Try stretches, meditation, or yoga for deep-breathing.
Take a breather. Make some time and space for yourself. Find an activity you enjoy doing. Indulge in a move that reduces stress by clearing your mind, calming your breathing, and restoring the internal balance.
Some options may include:
- Take a walk at night and stargaze.
- Listen to soothing music.
- Read a book.
Seek professional help if you need it. You can find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep, irritable and low, and unable to face routine chores despite your best efforts. If these feelings last for a long time, talk to a health professional.
Take control of the stress free holiday
Don’t let the holidays or the festivities become something you dread. Alternatively, take steps to avoid the stress and depression that may arise during the holidays. Learn to identify the causes of your stress, such as financial burdens or personal demands, so that before they lead to a meltdown, you can fight them. You will find peace and joy during the holidays with a bit of preparation and positive thinking. Keep your holiday stress at bay with mindful activities from JoyScore. Download the app now.
