Stress-Proof Your Holiday Season

'Tis the season to be stressed. At least that's how the winter holidays can feel, thanks to family, work and financial pressures. Your body and mind function best with adequate sleep, nourishment and exercise. This is your first line of defense against the added stress and demands of the holiday season.

Don't be tempted to get by on less sleep; instead, look for ways to simplify holiday preparations. Try not to overindulge in too many fatty or sweet-laden foods that abound this time of year. These types of food zap your energy levels, and can send your mood on a roller-coaster ride of unwanted highs and lows. If you must cut back on your normal exercise time, try to keep fit by incorporating some movement in your daily errands — park farther away from store entrances, or take the stairs instead of escalators or elevators.

Still feel a little frazzled? Here are some additional ways to cope with — and avoid —holiday stress:

  • Discuss plans in advance. If you can't be with one branch of the family for the holidays, breaking the news early can prevent hurt feelings. If you have a child returning from college, don't focus entirely on his or her visit. This can help prevent the January letdown.
  • Don't feel you have to accept every invitation or perform every holiday activity. Give yourself permission to let some things slide, like that seven-step holiday recipe.
  • Don't budge on your budget. Small, thoughtful gifts can bring great delights — and prevent post-holiday financial woes.
  • Don't do all your heavy lifting at the mall. Try to move your body every day. Give yourself the gift of a yoga class or exercise video.
  • Feeling hassled by housework? Ask a friend to help you bake or decorate — then return the favor.
  • Find a volunteer opportunity, or reach out to a relative or neighbor who needs assistance. Even if only for a few hours, volunteering can take the focus off your own holiday tasks and remind you how good it feels to help others.
  • Have a strategy for handling family get togethers. For example, plan your polite but firm response to that nosy relative with the knack for asking uncomfortable questions.
  • If long lines make you tense, take a few deep breaths and roll your head in a gentle circle while you wait.

For More Information
To learn more about Sharp's mental health services or to find a Sharp-affiliated doctor, search for a San Diego psychiatrist or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. To find general information about mental health, visit Mental Health Disorders in Adult Health or read the Mental Health News archive.