How to Deal With Holiday Stress

When the holidays arrive, many of us begin to feel quite a bit of stress due to the impending cost of gift-giving, highly pressurized time with relatives, and travel arrangements to be with loved ones during this particular time of year.

For many people, the holidays are joyous and a time filled with big meals, lots of laughter, and precious moments creating memories with those we love.

Unfortunately, for others, the holidays are a dreadful and lonely season. It doesn’t have to be this way, though. This year, if you feel alone or dread having to spend time with family, we encourage you to open yourself up to a more positive perspective during this holiday season. Try to make it fun.

Here are several ideas to relieve you from stress or symptoms of loneliness.

• Don’t abandon your healthy habits and use self-control to stay the course of your sober lifestyle (good hygiene, exercise, self-respect, nutritious diet, 8–9 hours of sleep, etc.)
• Set a realistic spending budget and create a plan to stick to it
• Put out festive decorations and holiday scented candles
• Learn to say no and maintain your boundaries without feeling obligated to do anything you know would not be suitable for you