The holidays are often synonymous with stress, making them more difficult to enjoy. For some, family causes the added stress and, for others, the season itself is to blame. Whether you’re in the first category, the last, or another, you don’t have to suffer through the holidays with added stress.

Here are 4 tips to beat holiday stress this year.

1. Don’t Overdo It

It’s easy to go overboard during the holidays with spending, decorations, food, and more. Remember to pace yourself this holiday season, set limits, and stick to them.

2. Ignore the Holiday Stereotype

We tend to put a lot of pressure on ourselves during the holidays because we compare ourselves to an idealized version of the perfect family or the perfect holiday. The fact is, we all have imperfect families and holidays and that’s okay.

3. Update Traditions

If your added stress comes from the usual family gatherings, make some changes. Have someone else host the gathering if you’re too stressed to host, have it catered to avoid the stress of cooking, or hold the gathering at a favorite local restaurant.

4. Be Realistic

Your added stress this holiday season may stem from family conflict that has yet to be resolved. Don’t expect to resolve the issue now. Try to enjoy your holiday despite the conflict and work on coming to a resolution in the New Year.

Everyone experiences added stress during the holidays but how it’s dealt with is the trick to managing it. Seek help immediately if your stress becomes too much for you to handle on your own.

Be well,
Dr. Amanda Itzkoff

Dr. Amanda Itzkoff is trained in Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology in New York, and can help you move beyond the holiday-induced stress and anxiety. If you are looking for more information on coping with stress and anxiety, please feel free to contact us via email. To schedule a consultation, please contact our office at 917-609-4990..