How to handle Christmas stress
Many people probably think of Christmas as the most wonderful time of the year, but is it?
Unfortunately, many find it difficult to be excited about Christmas, as they may have difficult or stressful situations to deal with.
It can be an emotionally charged time, one that brings a great deal of stress, anxiety and sorrow to both our hearts and our homes.
Surviving the festive season has become a bit of an art for those who have lost a loved one, for the divorced parents or for old people at a retirement home.
Read: Why red and green are the colours of Christmas
There is no denying that December makes some of us wistful and sentimental.
Not only is there pressure to enjoy a merry Christmas, whether it is possible or not, but there’s also the reflection that comes with December.
The remembrance of hope and expectation the festive season began with makes us feel contemplative and more sensitive.
This is sometimes amplified by the sadness of being alone or missing the person who died, which gives you that empty feeling.
We also, out of festive obligation, spend time with family, which can put us on edge. You know, the ones who have more money than you, the ones who buy the most expensive gifts while you can only afford the minimum.
The Christmas spirit is meant to unite people, but often the reunion isn’t like in the movies.
My friend Lu Carlson always felt overwhelmed, from decorating to finding the perfect gifts.
She recently listed the simple things that really made her family happy and began traditions that helped the less fortunate.
She firmly believed if you take your eyes off yourself and focus on those who have far less than you do, you can’t be depressed or have the Christmas blues.
Sometimes we are alone or around people who bring out the worst in us.
There are a couple of ways to save your sanity at family gatherings and to avoid family conflict.
Prepare a neutral response, such as, ‘Let’s talk about that another time.’
Then escape to the bathroom, offer to help in the kitchen or go hang out with the children.
And it always helps to call a good friend if you need a sympathetic ear.
