Coping With Anxiety During The Holidays For A More Joyous Time

The holiday season is in full swing. It’s a time of fun and celebration, but it can also be overwhelming at times. The holidays can often feel rushed, busy, and even suffocating. 

Some people struggle with the pressure to make everything “perfect.” In contrast, others tend to feel anxious about their financial situation, having people in their homes, or dealing with family members who might be toxic. 

Needless to say, it’s not uncommon to experience anxiety during the holidays. Unfortunately, anxious thoughts can quickly impede your celebrations and joy. Thankfully, there are things you can do to cope with anxiety during the holidays. With a few effective tips and strategies, you can enjoy this time of year with less worry and more joy. 

Set Boundaries

Boundary setting during the holidays might seem impossible. But it’s not selfish — it’s necessary. First, don’t feel obligated to attend every event. If your schedule is starting to fill up and you’re getting anxious about your obligations, understand that it’s okay to say “no” to certain things. 

Second, don’t be afraid to set boundaries with people. If certain family members or friends are triggers for your anxiety, limit your time around them. Maybe their presence doesn’t necessarily bother you, but they tend to bring up subjects that fuel your anxiety. Let them know right away that you won’t be talking about those things. If they get brought up, steer the conversation elsewhere or remove yourself from the conversation.

You can set limits and take more control this holiday season. Setting boundaries is a great way to establish that control and feel calmer. 

Practice Self-Care

Self-care is important all year. But it’s especially necessary during this busy season when caring for your physical and mental health might take a back seat. 

Don’t let yourself get caught up in things like presents, parties, and everything in between. Those things can be fun, but not at the expense of your well-being. 

Self-care practices don’t have to take a lot of time, and they don’t require you to spend more money if that’s a source of stress. Getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising are all great forms of self-care. If you tend to get anxious throughout the day, consider writing in a journal. It can be helpful for jotting down your anxious thoughts and pulling yourself back into the present. 

Don’t Isolate Yourself

The holidays are a time of togetherness. While having some “me time” is a good thing, make sure you’re not completely isolating yourself — especially if you struggle with anxiety. 

Lean on your support system if your anxious thoughts are trying to take over. Not only can the people you care about serve as a distraction, but they can help you work through your anxious thoughts. They can help you recognize that you’re not alone. That can go a long way in feeling more in control and less fearful. 

If you don’t want to talk to friends and family about what you’re feeling, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Anxiety is a common condition. If there’s a silver lining to it, it’s that it’s often very manageable with the right help. So, if you don’t want to go through the entire holiday season feeling anxious and overwhelmed, get the help you deserve. 

A therapist will help you get to the root of your anxiety. They’ll also help you form strategies that make it easier to manage your symptoms each day. 

Try some of the suggestions here. Set healthy boundaries for yourself, and prioritize your personal care. If you’re still struggling with anxiety, understand that you’re not alone, and talking to someone can make a big difference through the holidays and beyond. 

Reach out to learn more about anxiety treatment and how it can help.