The holidays are a joyous season, but they can also be stressful. If you have family that asks too much of you or a particular family member that always pushes your buttons, this time of year can be a challenge.
Ultimately, this isn’t the most wonderful time of the year for everyone. Do you equate the holidays with family stress? If so, this blog is for you. Here are three tips to help you handle family stress at the holidays this year.
Make boundaries
Boundaries help you protect yourself. But first, you need to figure out where to draw those lines.
It’s not the most comfortable conversation to have with yourself, but try to identify what about the holidays, specifically, causes you stress. Is it grandparents asking when you’ll get married or have kids? Is it a family member who you know will want to have a politically combative conversation with you?
Once you know what’s causing your family stress at the holidays, create boundaries to protect yourself from it. That could mean simply saying no to conversations or activities. Stand your ground. You deserve to have a calm, safe holiday season.
For more help here, use these tips to set boundaries with your family.
Make safety a priority
This rings especially true this year, but your safety and the safety of those around you should always be paramount. Never overload your calendar to the point of exhaustion, even if it means declining invitations. Don’t agree to drive after a cocktail party. Don’t plan holiday travel when it will be overly taxing on you.
This year, keeping yourself and others safe might mean having an awkward conversation. Ultimately, your family might not understand why you need to change certain traditions or plans. But ensuring that you don’t bring COVID-19 to your family — or vice versa — means a happier, healthier 2021.
Make time for self-care
Self-care matters year-round, but it’s especially important right now — and this year. Family holiday traditions and pressures can make it feel like you need to prioritize events and activities over yourself. You don’t — and you shouldn’t.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by family stress at the holidays, carve out time on your calendar. Block out a few hours, a half-day, or even a full day, if you can, to do what you need.
That could be as simple as sitting and enjoying a cup of tea and some quiet. It could be exercising to get some endorphins flowing. It could be a Zoom session with friends who understand you. Self-care can take whatever form you need. Just make sure that as you give of yourself, your time, and your energy this holiday season, you hold space to fill yourself back up.
We can help you deal with family stress at the holidays. Our team of therapists can work with you to develop boundaries and coping strategies. Ultimately, we’re here with the goal of not just getting you through the holiday season, but helping you thrive during it. Contact us today.
