Consent Preferences

managing holiday stress

, , , ,

Food Festivities & Eating Disorders: Tips & Tricks For Navigating The Holiday Season

, , , ,
Food Festivities & Eating Disorders: Tips & Tricks For Navigating The Holiday Season

The holidays can be a stressful time for many people. There is much to coordinate from who is hosting, to navigating the many homes you may have to visit across family members. You may experience stress around the finances of buying gifts, worry around seeing people you may not like, or concern about that one family member that says a lot of controversial or offensive things. Stress may also arise when seeing your parents especially if you don’t have the best relationship with them. The holidays can be filled with a lot of anxiety, depression, and stress. For those struggling with eating disorders the holidays also bring up a lot of stress around food and eating. The holidays can also serve as a trigger if you struggle with an eating disorder or emotional eating. There may be a lot of fear foods for you, not a lot of support or escape and worry to stick to a meal plan or therapy goals. In a time of the year with a lot of gatherings, seeing people, and body conscious meals here are some strategies for planning ahead this holiday season:

, , , ,

Healthy and Happy Holidays: Setting Healthy Boundaries During the Holiday Season

, , , ,
Healthy and Happy Holidays: Setting Healthy Boundaries During the Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, there is often talk of it being “the most wonderful time of the year” with increased emphasis on joy and celebration. However, the topic of stress and/or increased sadness related to holiday functions are often overlooked. Whether it may be feeling increased pressure, toxic family dynamics, financial difficulties, or any other concern; the holidays can negatively impact our own mental health if we are not taking care of ourselves. In gearing up for the holidays, it is important to develop and be aware of our own personal, healthy boundaries.

, , , , ,

Looking out for Signs of Holiday Depression & Anxiety

, , , , ,
Looking out for Signs of Holiday Depression & Anxiety

While the holidays can be stressful for everyone, those dealing with depression and anxiety can struggle that much more. About 1 in 5 adults will suffer from mental illness each year and the holidays can create more stress, that triggers or exacerbates those mental health conditions. One of the best ways to alleviate stress is to engage in effective self-care such as eating balanced meals, getting enough sleep, and making sure you have enough downtime.

, , , , ,

5 Activities to Try When The Holidays Don't Feel Bright

, , , , ,
5 Activities to Try When The Holidays Don't Feel Bright

The holidays hold a lot of pressure for many. Even if you are looking forward to the lights, food, and festivities during the holiday season, there may also be a lot of stress. Pressure to impress loved ones with the most picture-perfect meal or the greatest gift can lead to stress. Wanting to buy the best gift can lead to strains on a tight budget, and this year, the delays in packages can lead to stress and anxiety that your gifts won’t arrive on time. For many this year, feelings of sadness may also arise from being unable to be close to family during this time. Below are a few things you can do if you find yourself stressed or depressed during this holiday season.

, , , , , ,

Dealing with the Holiday Have-Tos

, , , , , ,
Dealing with the Holiday Have-Tos

As we end Halloween and approach Thanksgiving, thoughts of other winter holidays also begin to come up. Planning for all of these holidays and events can bring about panic, anxiety, stress, and a feeling of all the things we “have to” do. These “have to’s” such as cooking, decorating, buying gifts, getting together with others, etc. are the “have to’s” many of us face throughout the holiday season. With so many things to do, these “have to’s” can take a toll on our well-being. But do we really have to do all of these “have to’s”? Not necessarily. There are ways to make sure you find a balance between what you want to do, and what you have to do this holiday season.


, , , , ,

Tips for Mental Wellness During the Holidays

, , , , ,
Tips for Mental Wellness During the Holidays

As the holidays are drawing near, it is important to remember the need to prioritize your mental health. This tends to be a busy time, with so much to do and plans to attend. This can bring upon feelings of being overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, and depressed. It can also be a time to remember those we have lost. This effect of the holidays can happen to anyone at any age.