::holiday:blues::

 I deal with a lot of anxiety - on a regular basis...it really could be about anything...could be about finding a job to wondering if I happened to have offended someone...and I won't let it go until I find some sort of reassurance of some sort. This is where my OCD kicks into play. 

I find that these two beasts rear their ugly heads when I am under particularly high duress.
Instead of just being in the moment and being happy I am constantly trying to figure out if I did something wrong in the past or how I can avoid doing something 'wrong' in the future. Not an easy or particularly joyous way to live, right? 

And I think that it's hard for everyone too, especially during this time of year...when a lot of people are dealing with stress, anxiety and depression during the holiday season. 

Instead of hiding away from the world it is important to get out there and engage in healthy personal behaviors - so you don't fall further into the trap. Which is so easy to do if you are in a perpetual negative self-talk cycle. 

Here are a few tools in dealing with stress and depression during the holidays that I read and took from the site Psychology Today and figure it would be good to share on here as well for those that are struggling themselves during the holiday season! 

1. Keep your expectations balanced. 

You won't get everything you want, things will go wrong, and you won't feel like Bing Crosby singing White Christmas. Remember that everything doesn't have to be perfect and don't worry about things that are out of your control. 

2. Don't try to do too much. 

Fatigue, over-scheduling, and taking on too many tasks can dampen your spirits. Learn to say no, delegate as much as possible and manage your time wisely. If you choose to do less you will have more energy to enjoy the most important part of the season - friends and family. 

3. Don't isolate. 

If you're feeling left out, then get out of the house and find some way to join in. There are hundreds of places you can go to hear music, enjoy the sights or help those less fortunate. 

4. Don't overspend. 

Create a reasonable budget and stick to it. Remember, it's not about the presents, it's about the presence. 

5. It's appropriate to mourn if you're separated from or have lost loved ones. 

If you can't be with those you love make plans to celebrate again when you can all be together. 

6. Many people suffer depression due to lack of sunlight because of shorter days and bad weather. 

Using a full spectrum lamp for twenty minutes a day can lessen this type of depression called SAD {seasonal affective disorder}. 

7. Watch your diet and remember to exercise. 

It's normal to eat more during the holidays, but be aware of how certain foods effect your mood. If you eat fats and sweets, you will have less energy, which can make you feel more stressed and run down. It can be very helpful to take a walk before and/or after a big holiday meal. 

8. Be aware of the Post Holiday Syndrome. 

When all the hustle and bustle suddenly stops and you have to get back to the daily grind if can be a real let down. Ease out of all the fun by planning a rest day toward the end of the season. 

9. Plan ahead. 

Many people don't go to the mall after Thanksgiving to avoid shopping stress and others do much of their party prep in advance. 

10. Learn forgiveness and acceptance. 

If some of your relatives have always acted out or made you feel bad, chances are that won't change. If you know what you're getting into, it will be easier to not let them push your buttons. If things get uncomfortable go to a movie or for a drive and adjust your attitude. 

-S.*