• VOLUNTEER your time at an organization you support.
• TAKE a 15-MINUTE BREAK. Fifteen minutes of “alone time” may be just what you need to refresh yourself. Try taking a brisk walk around the block. Exercise is a great stress reliever, and a daily dose of winter sunlight can dramatically improve your mood. Meditation is another quick way to enjoy healthy downtime.
• PRIORITIZE YOUR TIME. Understand that you can’t do everything, so choose the things that you can accomplish and enjoy.
• ASK FOR HELP. Getting your family and friends involved in the holiday preparations may alleviate the stress of doing it all on your own. Try to plan some time with friends. If you feel isolated, seek out the support of your community, religious or social services.
• SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS. Sometimes, expectations for family get-togethers are too high. Accept your family members and friends as they are and set aside grievances for a more appropriate time.
• CELEBRATE THE MEMORIES OF LOVED ONES NO LONGER HERE. Confronting memories can be a normal part of the holiday experience and should be openly discussed and celebrated.
• PUT IT ALL IN PERSPECTIVE. Think about what the holiday really means to you and your family—time together, religious observance, reflection on your life and future goals—let these aspects of the holidays keep things in perspective.
• IF YOU FEEL DEPRESSED, call your spiritual leader, a community health service, or a trusted friend. Remember—help is available, but you must ask.
