It is October and the holiday season is soon to be upon us. I love the holidays but unlike my childhood self I’ve discovered my adulthood depression brings new meaning to living my life during the holidays and cold winter months.
In the past I was exited and ready for Halloween and had my costume either almost done or was well on my way in the process. In my teenage years it was a season that I could be anything that I wanted. Over the years that has changed.
When I look ahead to the holidays I see panic attacks and large overcrowded shopping malls. The prep work no longer brings me joys but instead sends me spiraling into a constant state of anxiety.
My Top Ten Ways to Get Through the Holidays and Even Enjoy them Again.
ITS OK IF ALL YOU DO IS JUST BREATH
Allowing yourself the reassurance that some days you need to step away from it all and just breath. Don’t get upset at yourself or become overwhelmed that you didn’t accomplish your large list. The important things will still be there tomorrow.
PRIORITIZE
When you start your day. Prioritize what is the most important. Even if its only one item. Choose what is crucial for that day and let the rest go. Some days I do great to just take a shower.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO SAY NO
It is OK to say no. And as a good friend told me many years ago no is a full sentence. Only agree to things that are doable and that you can accomplish. Set yourself up for success and don’t add more to your plate then you can handle. Also know that its OK to say that something is to much for you and ask for help when needed.
ENJOY WHAT YOU CAN
Step back when it gets to be to much but step outside your comfort zone and enjoy something you may not think you would necessarily enjoy. Deliberate choice to do things when you are depressed can push you past that season of depression and help you enjoy an event that you may otherwise have avoided entirely. Allowing your self the space to leave if it gets too much opens the door to participate without the pressure of it ending in pending doom.
LET IT BE
In the end whatever happens will be what it is. Take pressure away by allowing it to be what it is. If it doesn’t get done by the time the holiday gets there then it wasn’t meant to happen. So often we stress about getting it perfect in time for the event and we forget why we do it in the first place. Ask yourself what is the reason I’m here? Is it to have a perfect set table? The perfect dinner? Perfect holiday? Find your reason and use that as motivation to celebrate. Those around you will have a good time if you’re having a good time. So just LET IT BE.
I hope these help take away some of the stress of the Holiday season and Enjoy.
I am not a licensed therapist or mental health professional. If you are suffering from a major disorder and need treatment please seek the help of a professional.
