3 Ways to Handle Anxiety During the Holidays
Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Kate Smith
The holidays can be a stressful time for a variety of reasons. Whether it is seeing old friends who may have a toxic effect on your mental health or being around alcohol and drugs during parties, the holidays can be a minefield for those with an anxiety disorder. If your holidays occur regularly in Massachusetts and you are worried about handling anxiety during the holiday season, the Greater Boston Addiction Centers can help. Please contact us online or call 877.920.6583 today to learn how anxiety treatment in Boston can help you safely and successfully cope and enjoy the holiday celebrations.
3 Ways to Handle Anxiety During the Holidays
You don’t want your anxiety derailing holiday celebrations. While our depression treatment centers in Massachusetts can help put you in a position to process triggers, cope with stress, and maintain a positive outlook, you also may benefit from simple, everyday ways you can handle anxiety during the holidays.
As we get closer to the holiday season, here are three ways to handle anxiety in a healthy and productive manner, allowing you to relax and enjoy time with family and friends.
1. Make Plans in Advance
Planning your holiday season in advance may help to reduce stress and surprises. Making plans in advance can involve:
- Sorting your accommodations
- Booking hotels, travel, and transportation (rental cars, airport taxis)
- Agreeing on dates, arrival times, etc
- Setting a budget and sticking to it
- Buying travel insurance to mitigate against weather, illness, and unforeseen challenges in reaching your destination
- Delegating responsibilities to unburden yourself
Taking the simple steps to plan for your holidays well in advance and creating a checklist of what you need to pack and prepare for, such as tickets and passports, will give you peace of mind and reduce some of the anxiety that can be present during the holidays. If you feel overwhelmed, anxiety treatment in Boston with Greater Boston Addiction Centers can help.
2. Talk To Professionals
One of the ways to successfully manage your anxiety is to recognize that it is there and has an impact on you, your family, and your life. By talking to trusted people, like professional therapists and members of your support network, you will have that constant sounding board to discuss and share your struggles. You do not have to manage anxiety on your own, not during the holidays or any time of year. Boston rehab centers are available to provide you with the life skills needed to clear all of life’s hurdles.
3. Stick to Your Routine, And Don’t Overextend Yourself
For those who suffer from anxiety, a break in routine can be a serious challenge. The holiday season can throw a wrench into your daily schedule with additional commitments, events, and travel. One of the ways to handle anxiety during the holidays is to make space for your day-to-day activities, including:
- Running
- Exercising
- Journaling
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Good sleep
- Therapy
Additionally, don’t overextend yourself during the holidays. Yes, this is a special time of year, and many family members and friends will hope and expect to see you at their event or party. Still, you are allowed to say no. Limiting your exposure to stressful situations and not overextending yourself can keep your anxiety manageable during the holidays. If you feel yourself being pulled in too many directions and unable to handle your anxiety at this time of year, learn how our anxiety treatment in Boston may be able to set you on a healthier and happier path.
Learn More at Greater Boston Addiction Centers
The holiday season promises to be a fun, joyful time, but it can also be stressful and anxiety-inducing. If you are worried about handling your anxiety during the holidays, the depression treatment centers in Massachusetts may hold the key to your happiness. Contact us using our secure online form or call us confidentially at 877.920.6583 today.
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