5 Ways to De-Stress During the Holidays

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Monday, December 06, 2010

GoLocalProv Health Team

Is it really the most wonderful time of the year? The song says it is, but the holidays can create expectations that are impossible to fill, demand time that is not there to give, and put pressures on families beyond the usual ones. Take the follow five tips from the RI Dept of Health's Office of Family, Youth, and School Success on how to destress the holidays.

1. Be as realistic is possible. This can be apply to planning schedules ahead, prioritizing the must-do activities and the like-to-do activities. It's also about allowing extra time when things don't go as planned. Finally, let go of ideas of perfection. Try to enjoy things as they are, not as you think they should be.

2. Work out schedules together, as a family. Give everyone a chance to express what they want. Be clear about your expectations of each other. Try to schedule some time apart, too.

3. Set a holiday budget and stick to it. Show your teens how to manage their money during the holidays, as well.

4. Put aside differences with friends or family members for the holidays. Don't stuff your feelings. Just wait for a better time to try to work things out.

5. Limit your alcohol use. Drinking too much will only increase feelings of sadness or anxiety. Let your children see that you can celebrate without alcohol. Also, be aware that teens may be under more peer pressure to drink during the holidays. They take their cues from you.

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