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How to avoid Holiday Stress Part 1.


13 years ago 0 221 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Hi members,
 
The holidays can be a stressful time of year, and a sad one. It can be extra difficult because we're suppose to feel joyous and happy, and be with family and friends. If we don't feel that way, we may feel the pressure to do so and not acknowledge our true feelings.
 
So how ever you want to spend the holidays, celebrate the way you would like!
 
Happy Thanksgiving to our American members!
Helena, Health Educator
13 years ago 0 659 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Yes the holidays are a challenge for me every year.  I am thinking about going to the park again this year to see the lights and maybe a play...I do not have family to spend the holidays with but I still enjoy all of the Christmas lights and decorations this time of year...The hot chocolate, hot apple cider and walking in the crisp air....
I want to wish everyone in the U.S. a Happy Thanksgiving this coming Thursday...
 
Red
13 years ago 0 1665 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Hello upsidedown:  Congratulations on your 30 yrs.  That's a great success!  I know around here there are meetings even on Christmas Day as it can be a very stressful time for some people in AA.  I have been to some open meetings and have attended AlAnon for myself because of experiences with family members.  That was generous of you to open your home at holiday time. I like the idea of helping out at soup kitchens and Christmas dinners for the less fortunate.  Good idea.
 
Sunny
13 years ago 0 72 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
During my early years in AA (it's now 30 years clean and sober) we would have an open house for those in the program to join us who had nowhere to go.  The only requirement was to be sober.  Some years we had up to 30 people sit and have a meal with us.
 
Usually during the holiday season, people become so involved with shopping, not just gifts but preparing for food gatherings, that they forget there is a world out there.  Especially now with the way the economy is, there are alot of people without families or places to go.
 
There's usually a community soup kitchen puting on a dinner for the homeless shelter, so whenever I moved around, I always volunteered so I wouldn't be alone, plus it kept me grateful. There but for the Grace of God, go I.  And in this economy anything can happen to anyone these days. (I'm in property mgt so I see it first hand).
 
I always had a small family, so as it dwindled down, me and my mother would have a nice meal together and watch a movie. My son usually went to his father's house.
Unfortunately, my mom died a few years ago, so I don't need a holiday to miss her and feel the loss of her presence.  Sometimes, a daughter only wants to talk or be with her mother, a husband or others just won't do.
 
Now, because of my husband and my very stressful business, we love spending time alone, reading, relaxing, and having some quality time together. We may go to family for a quick meal or dessert just so we don't have to feel overwhelmed with too much energy swirling about.
 
Happy Thanksgiving to all !
 
13 years ago 0 1665 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Hi Ashley:  Glad you started this thread.  It's true this season can be hard on many people.  I lost a brother whose birthday was Christmas Day.  Even after all these years, I still feel I want to see him and be with him.  I wish him a happy birthday every year.  I acknowledge these feelings, think about it, think about all the good times we had and how much I love him, then I can move on to other things and enjoy myself.  It's all part of life.
It's true you don't have to go it alone.  Lots of support out there and things you can join in and volunteer. Not saying it's easy, as you say, there may be a feeling of sadness, but hopefully that won't stop you from going out and doing something positive for the neighbourhood and for yourself.
 
Sunny
13 years ago 0 11210 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Members,
 
Recognize your feelings.  The holidays 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.
 
Members, how do you push yourself to stay social during the holiday season?
 
Ashley, Health Educator
 

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