Hallmark tells us that the holiday season is full of cheer. This is certainly true for some of us, but for others, the holiday season may trigger discomfort and difficult feelings. Some of the holiday stressors that contribute to these feelings include extended time with family, past trauma, financial stress, an emphasis on food, and the reminder that some of our loved ones are no longer with us. Keep reading for some tips and tricks this holiday season!
Holidays are full of expectations and triggers.
There is the expectation to travel, to be with family, to spend money on gifts, and to enjoy the food, all with a big smile on your face. The holidays can be especially triggering for those who struggle with mental health and alcohol or substance use. When it comes to the holidays, it can be tricky to know what expectations are reasonable and which ones are too much. It might be helpful to consider what your own expectations are and how to manage them.
Set boundaries. Be okay with saying no.
Once we get clear on our own expectations, we can set boundaries that allow us to stay true to our values— not Aunt Leslie’s values! It can be difficult when you're feeling overloaded. But, remember that you don't have to do everything that is asked of you, and you certainly don't have to do all the things people want from you. It's important to set boundaries and say no when necessary. It may be helpful to role-play saying no, or changing the topic to avoid an uncomfortable conversation, with a friend or therapist before seeing family.
Be gentle with yourself and use your support system.
Here are a few tips for surviving the holiday season:
Be gentle with yourself. Remember that you are not alone and that there is no shame in feeling anxious or sad during this time of year. It’s not just you!
Ask for help when you need it. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, take a break and reach out to your support system.
Don’t forget about self-care. This tends to be a busy time of year, so it can be helpful to maintain some form of routine and engage in activities that rejuvenate you. Don’t forget how important a good night's sleep is!
Prioritize what matters to you, even if it goes against the grain.
The holidays can be an incredibly stressful time, even when you're not dealing with mental health issues. There tend to be a lot of “shoulds” that come up this time of year. “I should spend time with my family,” “I shouldn’t eat that,” “I should be cheerful.” This is a good time to practice acceptance and prioritize what matters to you most. If your typical holiday plans don’t feel good to you, maybe it’s time to start a new tradition!
Get Help This Holiday Season
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the holiday season, you are not alone. It’s okay to say no, set boundaries, and prioritize what matters to you. There are many ways to navigate this season in a healthy way. If you feel like you need a little extra help, reach out to us for a free consultation. We are here for you!
Begin Online Anxiety Treatment in North Carolina
The holidays can feel as stressful as they are joyful. But, you don’t have to struggle alone. Our team of caring therapists would be honored to support you in making the most of the holiday season. We are happy to offer support from our Asheville, NC-based practice and across North Carolina. To start your therapy journey, please follow these simple steps:
Meet with a caring therapist
Start improving your mental health!
Other Services Offered with Strive On Counseling
Anxiety treatment isn’t the only service our team offers. As Asheville therapists, we understand that every individual has a unique set of mental health needs. This is why we are happy to offer many forms of therapy. More specifically, our services include individual counseling, anxiety treatment, EMDR trauma therapy, therapy for men’s issues, mindfulness, Buddhist counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, teletherapy / online therapy. Some other resources we offer include guided meditations, supplements, a list of books and other useful resources, and online courses. If you would like more information about any of these services, please reach out today, and start doing therapy in North Carolina!