Content Overview

• Summary
• Revise holiday activities to fit your current physical and emotional condition and to include people you care about. Don't over extend yourself..
• Look at past holiday stressors to see what has previously helped you cope and move forward.
• If you are in treatment, talk to your doctor about taking time off during the holidays or changing your schedule.
• Keep your expectations realistic.
• Prioritize your activities.
• If you're not physically or emotionally up to going shopping, or you are not allowed in holiday crowds, shop online or from catalogues.
• If a money crunch is causing stress, focus on the real meaning of the holiday. Reign in spending with a budget.
• Live healthy. Don't over indulge. Exercise. Get rest.
• If you are dealing with grief, use the holidays to help finish your grieving.
• Share your feelings. As Art Linkletter said, "Laughter is the best medicine." It's okay to cry.
• Build in alone time
• Practice forgiveness
• If you're lonely... get busy. Consider volunteering.
• Accept what you can't change.
• If you make resolutions, keep them doable.
• Practice coping mechanisms, including renewing spirituality.
• If seasonal decrease in sunlight causes you to suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), get treatment.
• If you are going to travel, talk with your doctor about any special travel needs. Prepare.
• Use the holiday as a time to share memories and to make new ones.
• If none of the above work for you, call your doctor or other medical practitioner.