News: Tips for Coping with the Holidays

 

December, 2023

 

 

As we all know, the holiday season can be especially stressful even under “normal” circumstances.  Recent years have compounded those stress levels for many especially for those impacted financially or by the loss of a loved one.    We have compiled a few resources to assist you as you assist others during this season.

Handling Holiday Stress:

7 Tips to Help With Holiday Stress: Managing Stress and Depression Around the Holidays   Source:  11/2023. Northwestern Medicine. 

Finding Power in Anxious Feelings.    “The Covid-19 pandemic is reaching new records for positive cases each day. Schools across the nation are feeling the stress and pressure whether in person, remote, or hybrid. The holidays add extra tension, especially for those with differing opinions within their family, or who cannot see their family. ”  Read more.  Source:  Hauer, C. 11/27/2020.  School Social Work Association of America

10 Tips for Coping with Holiday Stress.   The Mayo Clinic offers some great tips during this Holiday season to address stress.   “Being realistic, planning ahead and seeking support can help ward off stress and depression” especially if holidays have been difficult in the past.  Take time to “stop and regroup”.    Read more.    Source:  May Clinic Association  

Give Yourself Grace:  Accept Imperfection:

4 Mindful Tips to De-Stress During the Holidays.   1st tip:  “Accept Imperfection” (It still tastes just as good!) Where do this year’s celebrations fit into the grand scheme of things?  Read more.       Source:   Johns Hopkins Medicine

Holidays don’t have to mean excess stress. It’s time to reframe your thoughts  “Everyone has a vision of the perfect holiday, but when reality fails to live up to the dream, stress can result.”  There will be several opportunities for flexibility and resilience this year.    Source:  11/30/2023.  American Psychological Association 

Grief During the Holidays:

Grief Over the Holidays:  Educators Can Help Students Cope.   Information and steps educators can take to assist grieving students during the holidays.   Source:  National Center for School Crisis & Bereavement

Grief and the Holiday: Dealing with the Pain   Source:  Grief.com 

Grief and Loss Throughout the Holiday Season  Source:  Mayo Clinic

Holiday Toolkit: Supporting Grieving Children During the Season of Family   No matter what holiday you celebrate during this season, it is one of family closeness and family traditions.  It is also a time to reflect on those who are no longer with us.  The National Association of Grieving Children provides a toolkit to help “families to celebrate loved ones, those present and those who have died.”  Read more. Source:  National Association of Grieving Children. ”

Coping with Financial Concerns:

Dealing with Financial Stress    Practical tips to help you deal with the financial stresses around the holiday.  Source of article and graphic.  11/20/2023 American Psychological Association