From holiday get-togethers to getting those presents wrapped, there’s a lot to do this week.
And while this time of year can bring joy, it can also create tension.
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So if the most wonderful time of the year is feeling a bit… overwhelming, you’re not alone!
“There are school breaks and holidays, but then there’s also the expectations that we put on ourselves that things have to look a certain way or we should feel a certain way,” said Jody Baumstein, a licensed therapist with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
Baumstein said handling holiday stress starts with acknowledging it. She said we’re often not aware of how we feel, and we can’t do anything about it until we recognize it.
Then, address the stress by giving yourself permission to do things differently, especially if certain holiday traditions are exhausting.
And be realistic. Before adding to your to-do list, make sure you can get those things done. Allow yourself to say no, Baumstein said.
“It can be as simple as, ‘Thank you so much for the invite. Unfortunately, we’re not going to be able to make it this year,’ and leave it at that,” Baumstein said.
If some of your stress involves being around certain family members, Baumstein said to set boundaries and let them know in advance that controversial topics are off-limits.
Also, have a plan for taking a break if you need one.
Finally, practice gratitude.
Baumstein said many times we rush through the holidays without taking the time to really enjoy them.
She said grounding yourself in the moment and appreciating the sounds, smells and feelings this time of year can help you to stop thinking about your to-do list and allow you to lean into the joy this time of year can bring.
“It’s not the absence of hard things,” Baumstein said. “It’s actually the recognition and appreciation of what’s good even in the midst of pain or suffering or struggle.”