The holiday season is often thought of or socially expected to be a time filled with joy and cheer, but for many of us, it can also be incredibly stressful.
Trying to juggle all the family obligations, parties, and travel on top of normal life commitments can take its toll and leave us feeling overwhelmed – resulting in unwelcome feelings of anxiety that we don’t know how to cope with.
If you’re struggling with those holiday anxieties this year, never fear! We have some tips today on ways to deal better with them and navigate your holiday anxiety with a bit less… anxiety.
Live in Washington State and looking for an online anxiety therapist? Book a free consultation to see if Talk. Heal. Thrive. is a fit.
1. Get organized
One of the best ways to reduce holiday anxiety is to get organized. Make a list of everything you need to do and start checking items off as you go. This will help you to feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
2. Set realistic expectations
It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself and your family or friends during the holidays. If you’re expecting everything to be perfect, you’re likely to be disappointed. Instead, focus on enjoying time with your loved ones, being present with them, and taking it in as the experience unfolds, whether perfect or perfectly messy, it’s all part of your holiday experience.
3. Don’t overcommit
It’s easy to overcommit yourself during the holidays, but this will only lead to more stress. Say “no” to invitations that you don’t really want to attend, and have self-compassion if you notice guilt feelings come up, vs. sitting in the guilt feelings.
4. Take some time for yourself
During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s important to take some time for yourself. Whether it’s taking a long bath, going for a walk, or just reading your favorite book, make sure you carve out some time during the holiday season for your own recovery and re-energizing.
5. Stick to your routine
As much as possible, try to stick to your normal routine during the holidays. This can help you to feel more grounded and less anxious. If your routine needs to change due to holiday travel or other commitments, try to make the changes as small as possible so that they are easier to handle.
6. Eat healthy and exercise
It’s easy to let healthy habits fall by the wayside during the holidays, but this can actually make holiday anxiety worse. Eating nutritious meals and getting regular exercise will help you to feel better physically and mentally, so try to keep these activities as part of your routine, even if they are a bit less than usual.
7. Connect with loved ones
One of the best ways to combat holiday anxiety is by connecting with loved ones. Whether it’s spending time together in person or simply staying in touch via text or social media, make sure you take the time to connect with those who matter most to you.
8. Seek professional help from an Online Anxiety Therapist if needed
If your anxiety is severe or interfering with your ability to enjoy the holidays, seek an anxiety therapist that can help you work through your anxiety, learn coping skills and prepare for the next holiday season.
I hope these 8 tips for dealing with holiday anxiety are helpful for you this season.
Remember that you’re not alone in feeling stressed during this time of year and doing your best to take care of yourself is all anyone can ask. Seeking an anxiety therapist near you for help if necessary.
If you find that your anxiety is interfering with your everyday life or preventing you from enjoying the holidays, consider scheduling an appointment with an anxiety therapist.
They can help give you more tools to deal with holiday anxiety and manage it in a healthy way. Wishing you all the best this holiday season!
Further Reading:
- 9 Signs That Holiday Anxiety Poses Real Mental Health Risks
- How to Handle Your Anxiety During the Holidays
- Anxiety Around the Holidays: Stress Less, Celebrate More
Lindsey Ferris, MS, LMFTA, Washington State
Talk. Heal. Thrive. therapist Lindsey Ferris is based out of Seattle, Washington working with clients via online therapy