- Make
realistic expectations for the holiday season.
- Set
realistic goals for yourself.
- Pace
yourself. Do not take on more responsibilities than you can handle.
- Make a
list and prioritize the important activities. This can help make holiday
tasks more manageable.
- Be
realistic about what you can and cannot do.
- Do not
put all your energy into just one day (i.e., Thanksgiving Day, New Year's
Eve). The holiday cheer can be spread from one holiday event to the next.
- Live
and enjoy the present.
- Look to
the future with optimism.
- Don't
set yourself up for disappointment and sadness by comparing today with the
good old days of the past.
- If you
are lonely, try volunteering some time to help others.
- Find
holiday activities that are free, such as looking at holiday decorations;
going window shopping without buying and watching the winter weather
whether it's a snowflake, or a raindrop.
- Limit
your drinking, since excessive drinking will only increase your feelings
of depression.
- Try
something new. Celebrate the holidays in a new way.
- Spend
time with supportive and caring people.
- Reach
out and make new friends.
- Make
time to contact a long lost friend or relative and spread some holiday
cheer.
- Make time for yourself!
- Let
others share the responsibilities of holiday tasks.
pet - 29.04.2005
Tips for coping with holiday stress and depression:
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