Lisa Conway – FLORIDA TODAY

Q: Any advice for avoiding holiday stress and blues?

A: During the holiday season, we are constantly reminded of how joyful we “should” feel — yet the opposite can be true. Loneliness, financial strain or overwhelming expectations can all contribute to the stress and sadness of the “holiday blues.” Let’s take a look at a few strategies to help cope with (or mitigate) these feelings.

Manage Expectations

Many people (especially women) feel the pressure to create the “perfect” holiday experience. This can lead to stress and disappointment if things don’t go quite as planned. Consider what is realistic to accomplish, with a focus on meaningful traditions. It’s okay if everything isn’t picture-perfect. Embracing imperfections can help reduce stress.

Practice Self-Care

The “ticking clock” in our heads (so much to do and so little time!) can lead to neglect of our well-being. Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise and sufficient sleep is essential. Admittedly, demands on your time (and willpower) can make self-care challenging. But persevere! Activities that bring joy — even a walk in the fall air– can provide an emotional boost.

Maintain Connections

Feelings of loneliness commonly contribute to holiday sadness. If you’re far from loved ones, have lost someone close or a facing a challenge, try hard to stay connected. Reach out to friends, family, or community groups –and yes, virtual connection counts. Volunteering can be a reinvigorating opportunity for human contact. And kindness has a wonderful boomerang effect.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

Financial stress can certainly dampen holiday spirits. The pressure to spend on gifts, decorations, etc. can feel overwhelming. So create a realistic budget —and stick to it. Think about each person and focus on meaning rather than expense. Holiday memories are rarely about material goods.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

Painful memories can resurface at the holidays, making us anxious or intensifying our grief. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings— to yourself, a trusted friend or therapist. Allow yourself to feel what you feel, then turn your focus to what brings you comfort.

Planning Ahead

Finally, organization is key. Start now. The simple act of transferring thoughts to paper can help put your mind at ease. By planning gatherings and activities in advance, you can minimize stress and last-minute chaos. Structure can help keep things manageable, freeing you to appreciate the time of year.

Join me November 8th for a discussion about finding joy and overcoming holiday stress. RSVP online at www.OneSeniorPlace.com/events or call 321-751-6771 in Viera. Let’s turn the holiday blues into an embrace of the season.

Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and a Certified Care Manager for Senior Partner Care Services, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’ One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging