The children were all nestled snug in their beds with visions of sugar plums dancing through their heads. Stockings were hung by the chimney with care…..
That’s a familiar Christmas story that many have heard time and time again but only if the same magic that is hinted at in that story would appear and take care of all the preparations that go into Christmas Day it would be wonderful. However the reality for most is that Christmas is an extremely stressful time of year as people rush from store to store looking for that perfect gift for Aunt Louise or little Tommy, spend hours doing Christmas baking in preparation for the big day or in the case of those who are less fortunate, wonder how they can make their children’s Christmas wishes come true.
“There’s no question that Christmas can be a very stressful time of year for many people with all the hustle and bustle and the increased expectations that come with this time of year,” says Sharon Pelletier, Mental Health Coordinator with the Edmonton Southside Primary Care Network. “That’s why it is so important that you set realistic targets for yourself and have strategies in place to make sure you survive the season.”
Pelletier offers the following tips to help you not only survive, but hopefully thrive in, the holiday season:
• Change your expectations of family members. If you and your sister bicker all year long, chances are that tension will not be eliminated on Christmas Day. It may even be intensified. If you and your guests know that, there will likely be less disappointment if there is an argument. • Perfectionism may need to be replaced with "good enough". Will anyone notice that the ribbons match the wrapping paper? Or that the ornaments are coordinated? Most people love store-bought Christmas cookies as much as the homemade varieties and you can use that extra time to enjoy the season. • Stay on budget. Consider having a cash envelope for each person you will buy a gift for, and then do not go to the cash machine or use your credit card. Only use as much money as there is in each person's envelope to avoid overspending. • Consider gift exchanges that do not involve material objects. Give a coupon for free babysitting, or use the skills you have, such as offering a free haircut, or an oil change. Easier on the pocket book, and eliminates time spent shopping in busy malls for the right gift. • Give back. Even if you cannot donate money, attempt to give even an hour of your time by volunteering. It helps most of us remember how fortunate we are even when times are tough. • Allow yourself to grieve. Even if a loved one died long ago, you may be surprised how often you think of them at Christmas. Honor those memories, and you may find that others at your gathering may be having the same thoughts and would welcome an opportunity to talk about the ones that are not with us this year.• Get plenty of rest. T’is the season for late nights so catch a nap or sleep in when you can.• Avoid excessive use of alcohol or drugs. These can act as depressants making a possibly difficult time of year even harder. • Plan your eating. Do not go to a Christmas function when you are starving, as you will likely overindulge. Instead, try to have a healthy meal before you go, or snack on veggies rather than sweets some of the time. • Focus on your spirituality. You may not be religious, but consider what areas in your life bring you peace, joy and serenity, and nurture those this holiday season.