Get the Support You Need

Learn from thousands of users who have made their way through our courses. Need help getting started? Watch this short video.

today's top discussions:

logo

Social anxiety disorder

Ashley -> Health Educator

2024-05-29 1:50 PM

Anxiety Community

logo

Addiction

Ashley -> Health Educator

2024-05-20 2:48 PM

Managing Drinking Community

logo

Challenging Worry - Worry Time

Ashley -> Health Educator

2024-05-14 3:33 PM

Depression Community

This Month’s Leaders:

Most Supportive

Browse through 411.756 posts in 47.057 threads.

160,718 Members

Please welcome our newest members: Julesy, grames, rainyjade, AJ8142, HIngle_McCringleberry

Secrets to Holiday Happiness


8 years ago 0 286 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
I am heading out tomorrow, travelling  to spend Christmas with family.  Finding this my first Christmas alcohol free full of so many reminders and triggers.  All the firsts are hard.   The odd idea passes through my mind that perhaps I could have just one glass of wine.  Seems tougher than it has been but I am powering through and reminding myself that it would not be just one and I would be back at square one.  I do not want to give up my new sober life and I won't.  
As far as focussing on good feelings, Ashley, I know that it will be important for me to practise self-care daily (meditation and a daily walk) which help ground me and keep things in perspective.  Reminding myself that I am grateful to  be enjoying family with no guilt, shame about drinking this year and that is a good thing.  Gratitude for my new and hopeful sober life. 

Merry Christmas to all my friends here and thanks for all the support! 
8 years ago 0 11219 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Hi Members,

I found a great article in Psychology Today and I thought I would share. The article discusses four science-based ways to be more happy over the holidays.
 
Here is the gist:

Put phones and devices away - checking in on technology distracts you from being mindful and in the moment when with loved ones. Put the phone away and gently encourage other loved ones to do the same.
 
Focus on others - The holidays can be a stressful time for everyone especially for those prone to anxiety or social anxiety. Instead of focusing on how you are feeling, focus on how you can help others feel better. Focusing on others allows us to be happier as it gives us meaning and purpose.
 
Remember the gifts you already have - Making an effort to bring to mind what we are grateful for makes us happy, this is proven by science!
 
Really cut off from work - It may be tough to completely shut yourself off from work temporarily but it is important to do so. It allows you to be present in the moment and focus on what really matters."Research shows that walks in nature, cuddling with loved ones (or pets), meditating, exercising, or engaging in activities you love like reading can profoundly reduce your stress and give you a renewed sense of perspective and happiness."

To read the complete article visit: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/feeling-it/201512/4-science-backed-secrets-holidays-really-are-happy


Members, how are you planning on focusing on good feelings this holiday season? 

Reading this thread: