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Read about what the experts have to say about mental health.

Beat the Holiday Season Stress November 19, 2015 Shobhika Jaju Mental Health, Mental Wellness Holiday Stress, Managing Stress

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The holiday season has arrived with a bang and it is time to let your guard down and enjoy the festivity in the air. There are moments, however, when the endless parties, dinners & festivals, can overwhelm us and give rise to unnecessary stress and anxiety. This party season, resolve to enjoy it to the fullest and stay clear of negative emotions, by following some easy steps, as listed below:

  1. Be Realistic: All of us want to throw the best party ever, which will be the talk of the season. But it is important that you don’t have unrealistic expectations of yourself. It is OK if the decoration lights get fused at the last minute. It is also OK, if your cake did not turn out to be better than your friends’. Holidays are time for loved ones to get together. Acknowledge the things which are going right for you and be in a thankful mode.
  2. Stick to a Budget: Festivals are a time when gifts are exchanged and sometimes we tend to go over budget, which eventually adds to our financial stress. The best thing to do would be sticking to a budget and if you want to be more detailed, allot a budget to each individual’s gift. Gifting is just a medium of sharing your joy & happiness. There is no point being stressed out about it.
  3. Plan Ahead: It is very crucial that you plan shopping days, food menus, decoration at home, etc., well in advance. Staying planned, especially when you are throwing a party at home, will prevent you from experiencing any kind of stress about things going wrong.
  4. Take time out for yourself: It is important to get a breather in between the incessant partying & entertaining guests. Have a day set aside in the week, when you would like to spend time with yourself. Go for a spa, read your favourite book or watch your favourite movie. Gift self-time to yourself this holiday season.
  5. Don’t feel left out: For some of us, the holiday season may end up making us feel lonely. You see your friends and others around you always having a plan, but you don’t know what to do. IT IS OK! Holidays are the best time for you to reach out to friends / family / community members in need. Volunteering your time to help those in need is also a good way to combat your loneliness, and in the end will only make you feel happier.
  6. Seek professional help: If you are stressed out because of too much to do or nothing to do, and you are not able to cope up with your emotions, seek the help of a psychologist. A psychologist understands the mind – body connection best & can help you with goal setting. If you are feeling lonely, once again, your psychologist can help you understand the reasons behind it better.

Each one of us, have our own ways & plans of dealing with the holidays. What is your plan? Is it going to make you feel happier or will add to your stress levels? Keep in mind the above few pointers and enjoy the festive season. Happy Holidays!!