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How to avoid Holiday Stress Part 1.


15 years ago 0 538 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Hey Silver,
 
Thanks for sharing that with us. I think it is great you are preparing yourself for this. Please keep us posted on how your Holidays go!
15 years ago 0 1288 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Silver, 
Preparation is key. You're doing great things for yourself by preparing for times that you think may be difficult or that have been difficult in the past. 
Keep letting us know how you are doing. We're here for you!

Sylvie, Bilingual Health Educator
15 years ago 0 7 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
I wanted to add to this for other's reading that my husband died December 18th 2006, and a tragic incident occurred 3 years prior to that on boxing day (December 26).  So I know all to well about the xmas blue's. 
 
This year though,  I started to 'prepare' myself all year to make this a good, (hopefully fun), memorable new start.  I threw out all my old christmas stuff, and this year bought all brand new, everything, from the tree, to the decorations, to a very elegant table setting, (Martha Stewart would be proud and this week I started to work on all the xmas goodie recipes and thing's that I need for the holiday. I've even invited someone to join my family as they will be alone at xmas.
 
Nothing is going to change the facts, and it may be very very possible that I will have the xmas blue's, but I'm preparing for that as well (good ol' ocd kicking in ) but one of the first thing's I plan to do is light a candle for my husband's loss, memory, and spirit, and a candle regarding the other incident, so that I can celebrate, or at least face straight on every moment of the candles burning that I am learning, trying, accepting but not forgetting.


I hope this might help someone


blessings.

15 years ago 0 12049 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0

How to avoid Holiday Stress Part 1.
  Recognize your feelings.  Christmas is a difficult time of year for many.  Some may not have close friends and family and its okay to be sad.  It’s important at this time to express your feelings and to seek support. Don’t forget that you’re not the only one going through the same emotions. Support groups are great for individuals in need of someone to talk to.

Seek support. If you feel isolated or down, seek out family members and friends, or community, religious or social services. They can offer support and companionship. Consider volunteering at a community or religious function. Getting involved and helping others can lift your spirits and broaden your social circle. Also, enlist support for organizing holiday gatherings, as well as meal preparation and cleanup. You don't have to go it alone. Don't be a martyr.  

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