5 Ways to Cope During the Holidays

It’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. But if the holiday season brings you more stress than joy, you’re not alone. Each year many Americans suffer from holiday stress and depression between the cooking, shopping, spending and overworking. This year we also have the looming coronavirus pandemic, which may leave you worrying about you or your loved ones’ health and anxious about changing your holiday plans.

Here’s some tips that may help you minimize the stress and help cope with the holidays:

1. Acknowledge that this holiday will be different, but different can still be meaningful. Use this year as a stepping stone by choosing a few traditions to hold onto and being open to creating new ones with your family.
    
2. Focus on gratitude. Be thankful for things big and small – Christmas lights, sweater weather, your favorite Christmas song on the radio.
    
3. Take time for yourself. Find an activity you enjoy like meditation, walking outdoors, or a relaxing bath and take a break by yourself.
    
4. Use technology to stay connected. Facetime and Zoom calls are a great way to stay connected with family members you may not get to see this holiday season. Take it a step further – make a holiday playlist on Spotify to share with your family. It’ll be a great way to know you’re thinking about each other during the holiday season.
    
5. Remember not to abandon healthy habits. It’s okay to enjoy some holiday treats, but overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt.