Have holiday stress this season? It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but no matter what you’re celebrating, holidays can be hectic! This year especially, it is important to be mindful of our stress levels so that we can enjoy all that this wonderful time has to offer.
Though things will be different this year, we can still find ways to have fun, spend time with family, and relax. Thankfully, because we know that the holidays are coming, we can plan ahead on how to manage any challenges that may come along so we can reduce any negative impact.
How To Keep Holiday Stress Low and Cheer Up!
Planning Early and Being Flexible Can Help Lower Holiday Stress
Before you get too overwhelmed, set your priorities and make sure you are doing the things most meaningful to you. For example, pick a few of your favorite activities and consider how to enjoy them in a way that is safe and as stress-free as possible. If you are having a hard time choosing between things, try including activities on a smaller scale and don’t forget you can ask for help!
The holidays are a time we usually spend with others, and while that may be limited this year, think of other ways you can practice togetherness. For example, try video calling over dinner or desserts, bake together over Zoom, send out holiday cards, or do a festive drive-by to see decorations! Be realistic in your expectations. We can still have a great time, but remember to not let the stress of doing too much or having unreasonably high goals interfere with your joy!
Practice Self-Care and Coping Skills To Help With Holiday Stress
When times get a little crazy, remember to breathe. Be sure to schedule in some “me time” to practice self-care. For instance, maybe take a walk in nature, read a book, watch a holiday movie, or practice a meditation.
There may be moments during this season when things aren’t quite ideal, and it’s in those moments one should practice gratitude. Times can be challenging, but try and remember the positives. Think about what is going right in your life and things you are grateful for.
Sometimes we forget simple coping skills, but remember- it is okay to take ten minutes to yourself to release emotion and reduce any of that negative stress. Although the holiday season is often busy, don’t forget to also make time for therapy. Give yourself the space to process any stress or difficult emotions that may come up. The holidays are a wonderful time to focus on others, but don’t forget to make time for you! Take care of yourself. I wish you a happy and peaceful holiday season!
Begin Counseling at Our Center in Katy, TX
If you are ready to find relief from stress due to the holiday season, the therapists at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch can help! We provide therapy to people of all ages. To begin
counseling in Katy, TX, follow these three steps:
- Contact our office to set up an appointment or to get more information about the different therapies we offer
- Meet with one of our caring therapists
- Find peace from your stress with counseling!
Other Therapy Services We Offer
Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch we offer treatment for depression and anxiety for adults, teens, and kids. We also offer counseling services in other areas including
anxiety treatment,
trauma counseling,
counseling for kids,
counseling for young adults,
teen counseling,
couples counseling,
eating disorder treatment,
depression treatment,
men’s issues,
women’s issues, and
family therapy. Our therapists strive to regularly post blogs with helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. To learn more about our
therapists and our counseling services, please reach out to the
Counseling Center today!