Don't Panic

We are headed into one of the most stressful seasons of the year...the Holiday season.  What we hope will be a month of giving and caring can often resemble more panic and overwhelm, as our list of things to do grows exponentially each day.   No matter what our well intention thoughts are, life can take a toll.

So, how do we avoid anxiety and panic during this party planning, gift buying, giving and spreading the light kind of month?

• Make a plan.  Keep it simple and reasonable.  
• Stay organized.  Lists can be burdensome but they do help to keep it all from getting muddled inside your head. 
• Know your limits.  It isn't a badge of honor to do more than you physically or mentally can. 
• Practice good sleep hygiene.  Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.  
• Take a break from traditions that create too much stress. Maybe it's time to create something new.
• Say no.  Remember that "No" is a complete sentence.  Though some people think they need an explanation along with a No, they don't. 
• No one is perfect, including you. Your friend's Instagram posts may look perfect, but they aren't so don't believe everything you see.  Say yes to being human this holiday season.  

If you have a history of anxiety and depression, just knowing that this time of year may not be your best time of year, is half the battle.  Only expect of yourself what you know you can manage.  Your family would rather have a calm, rested mother than one who is anxious and always in a panic.  This is not the season of guilt and shame, it's the season of new beginnings, hope and peace...not just on earth but in your heart and mind as well.  

So, make this Christmas season different.  Start some new traditions that truly do bring an extra measure of peace and hope as we inch closer to 2019.