Anxiety During Holidays
By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC- Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, LPC-S For many people Christmas time brings joy, cheer, time spent with friends and family, good food, and fun times. But for many others the holiday season can bring sadness, depression, feelings of loneliness, and anxiety during the holidays. If this describes you, know that you are not alone, and Christmas depression is common for many people. So, if you are not feeling the holiday spirit, here are some tips and suggestions that will hopefully help.
Dealing with a Difficult Relative
Most of us have that one person we would like to avoid around family gatherings. Whether it’s a cousin, aunt, or uncle who is overbearing, a know-it-all, or abuses the alcohol, these things can drive us crazy, sometimes bring up bad memories, and cause extra anxiety during the holidays. Here are some steps you can take when dealing with a difficult relative or friend: Go to the gathering but allow yourself the freedom to leave if the situation starts to become stressful. Setting limits and boundaries is perfectly acceptable and you don’t need to justify your actions. Another option to not go to the gathering and find something else to do. You could get together with friends or volunteer somewhere. It can help to confide in a trusted family member to help you deal with the certain individual and help you avoid spending too much time with them. Lastly, realize that you can only control yourself and your own actions. Sometimes other people’s actions and words can feel personal, try not to take it to heart, and move forward.
Dealing with Loneliness
Some people don’t have family nearby and the holidays can bring on feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety during the holidays. When we isolate ourselves, the feelings of loneliness tend to increase. Even though it’s hard, resist the urge to withdraw. Try getting out once a day. Whether it’s to go for a walk, get a cup of coffee, or meet up with a friend. Start a new hobby or try something you’ve always wanted to do. Volunteer somewhere. By helping and engaging with others it will help you find more meaning and joy. If you are an animal lover, think about fostering a dog or cat over the holidays. Animals bring companionship and allows them to have a home for a time. Create new traditions and experiences. Bake cookies for first responders or nursing home residents. This can also be a good time to reach out and connect with friends who may be feeling lonely as well.
Enjoy the Present
Realize the present is all we have. Worrying about the past or future does not help. The only thing you can change is yourself in the current moment. If you are feeling anxiety or depression, remember you are in control of if you continue to participate in negative or worrisome thoughts. You can choose what you think about by practicing mindfulness and staying in the present. For some people meditation and prayer helps alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. Make time to take care of yourself by doing things you enjoy, eating healthy, drinking water, and getting enough rest.
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If you are ready to learn how to cope better with feelings of anxiety or depression, one of the therapists at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch can help! We provide counseling and mental health services. To begin counseling in Katy, Texas, follow these three steps:
- Contact our office to set up an appointment or to learn more about changing negative thought patterns.
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- Uncover ways to understand your thoughts and how they can affect your behavior and attitude.
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