Guest Post: Reducing Stress During the Holidays

The holidays are a time of immense joy and immense stress. Between shopping, wrapping, parties, guests and paying for all of it, it can make you want to go to bed and stay there till Valentine's Day. It's harder if you don't have people to spend the holiday with. Since a two month nap is probably not a viable option for most people, learning how to deal with your stress is the next best thing and is important to your overall good health.

Organization

Organization is key to being able to get things done on time and in full. Making a list of presents, as well as your budget for each person or family is a good first step. Noting your obligations on a calendar will allow you to not accidentally over-extend yourself. If you need child care or elder-care for your social obligations, this might be a good time for you to get a backup list of sitters started. This also permits you to set appropriate expectations. It doesn't have to be like the perfect Christmas 14 years ago, it can be a nice day or time period in its own right.

Don't Overdo Yourself

During these two months every year, it can seem like everyone wants you to do something. Volunteer, host a party, help with this, help with that, show up there - it can become overwhelming. There is a very important word to learn and practice. That word is no, and it's okay to use it. You don't have to do everything for everybody, you just have to do everything for yourself and the people you choose to help.

Relax

Relaxing is an important part of of reducing stress. Even when it seems like there is no time for anything else, take some time to just do what you want. When you come back to your list of projects, you may find that you have more energy and creativity anyway.

You've Done All You Can

Depression during the holiday season is unfortunately very common. If you feel like you can't do any more, and your stress is overwhelming, it may be time to seek medical assistance. Depression and stress or anxiety disorders are very real and some people may need professional help to get through this time period.

The holiday season is full of hustle and bustle, as well as long days and frustrations. It's important to remember that if you don't take care of yourself, you can't take care of anyone else either.

About the Author:
Dona Collins is an avid writer with a passion for planning, stress management, and health. She frequently writes career guides for various jobs in healthcare and enjoys helping individuals discover potential work paths.

Interested in writing a guest post for Random Thoughts of a Tangled Mind? Email alyssa_ast@yahoo.com for more details!