Tips to support with seasonal stress

The holidays are fun? This shouldn’t be a question, but for those trying to juggle work and home with presents, parties, and perfection, it can be one of the most taxing times of the year

It is important to take time to reflect on what may be causing you stress this season. Personally reflect and check off all of these examples that may apply to you:

To help cope with and support you through holiday stresses, see these tips below recommended by TelusHealth, USask’s dedicated EFAP:

Holiday sleep tips

Stick to a regular schedule. Go to bed close to your accustomed hour and get up when you usually do. Holiday meals tend to be erratic, but, as much as is possible, try to eat at regular hours and avoid eating a heavy meal close to bedtime.

Travel safely. Never drive when you're tired. Drowsy driving is a major cause of traffic accidents and death. Get adequate sleep before leaving and, if it's a long trip, break it up into segments so you get the rest you need. If you are flying in from across the country, plan to arrive a day or two early to get over the effects of jet lag.

Proper sleeping arrangements. If you have company coming to stay, make sure the sleeping arrangements are adequate. Don't give up your bed to a relative and try to sleep on the lumpy, narrow couch. Get them a hotel room if necessary. The same is true if you’re doing the visiting. Make sure you have a comfortable bed in a quiet room. Again, for your own well-being, get a hotel room if you need to.

Be honest. Never be afraid or ashamed to tell relatives and friends that you suffer from a chronic sleep disorder or other chronic illness. Explain why you need to stick to a schedule and follow the suggestions above.

Other Tips for thriving during the holidays

If you’re left feeling snowed under by the season, then clear some time out of your hectic holiday schedule to take in the tips below.

Be realistic. A romanticized vision of the ‘perfect’ holiday with your ‘perfect’ family is sure to disappoint. Embrace the fact that stress and minor conflict go hand-in-hand with the joy and fun of the holiday season. Relax and accept the imperfections of yourself and your family.

Stick to your budget. It’s not hard get caught up in the flurry of holiday spending, but once the sparkle of the holidays is over, you could be left with a very stark, very real bill.

Take a break. Take a few minutes occasionally to recuperate from all the activities. Deep breathing or meditation, even for five minutes, can help you relax.

Ask and you will receive. Recruit the support of other family members. Just because they’re not volunteering, doesn’t mean they don’t want to help. Children especially enjoy being part of the action. Younger kids can make cards, decorate, or tidy up while older children can help out with gift wrapping, food preparation and other errands.

Just say “no.” During the holidays, work, personal and family obligations can wreak havoc on your daily routine, cut into your free time and leave you feeling overwhelmed. Be selective and say “yes” only to those invites you really want to attend. Send a card to those you decline and, if you’re concerned about offending the host, a small gift for guests to enjoy (wine, flowers, etc.).

Stay healthy. Make an effort to get enough sleep and squeeze in physical activity whenever possible. Being well-rested and healthy will help you cope better with your stress.

Eat well. Enjoy holiday meals but keep portions small. Indigestion and heartburn can play havoc with the enjoyment of the season, and they can disrupt your sleep, so you get up the next day tired and irritable. Eat snack foods in moderation. Chocolates and rich holiday treats can also lead to stomach distress.

Drink responsibly. Keep alcohol consumption to a minimum and avoid drinking near bedtime. Alcohol may send you into a deep sleep at first, but later on it disrupts your sleep patterns, leading to a restless and unhealthy sleep.

Enjoy the ride. Concentrating on ‘the big day’ can take away from the fun of getting there. Take pleasure in the here and now of planning, preparation and time spent with family and friends reaching the final holiday destination.

Get out and about. Take a brisk walk in the morning or early evening.

Volunteer. Helping others is a great way to improve your mood. To volunteer, contact your local United Way or call local schools, churches, synagogues or mosques and ask about volunteer opportunities in your neighborhood.

Accept your feelings. There’s nothing “wrong” with not feeling jolly; many people experience sadness and feelings of loss during the holidays. Be kind to yourself, seek support, and even laugh at yourself every now and then.

Talk to someone. Don’t underestimate the power of friends, family, mentors and neighbors. Talk about your feelings; it can help you understand why you feel the way you do. Something as simple as a phone call, a chat over coffee or a nice e-mail or letter can brighten your mood.