The festive season is often portrayed as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. However, for many, Christmas can be a source of significant anxiety. Whether it’s the financial strain, family pressures, social commitments, or the heightened expectations for everything to be perfect, the holidays can feel overwhelming. Here are some practical strategies to help you manage anxiety during the Christmas season and make it more enjoyable for yourself.
Set Realistic Expectations
Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect or resemble the images we see in movies or on social media. It’s okay if things don’t go as planned. Set realistic expectations for yourself and others. Focus on what truly matters to you, whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones or simply enjoying some peaceful moments.
Plan Ahead
A lot of anxiety stems from last-minute preparations and the feeling of being unprepared. Create a plan for the holiday season, including shopping, cooking, and social events. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and tackle them one at a time. This approach can help reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed.
Set a Budget
Financial stress is a common source of anxiety during Christmas. Decide on a budget for gifts, decorations, and other expenses, and stick to it. Remember, thoughtful gestures often mean more than expensive gifts. Consider homemade or personalised presents, which can be more meaningful and budget-friendly.
Practice Self-Care
Amid the hustle and bustle, it’s essential to prioritise your well-being. Take time out for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as reading, taking a walk, meditating, or enjoying a warm bath. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also help reduce anxiety and improve your mood.
Learn to Say No
It’s okay to decline invitations or set boundaries if you feel overwhelmed by too many social commitments. Politely saying no can help you preserve your energy and focus on the activities that truly bring you joy.
Connect with Supportive People
Surround yourself with people who understand and support you. Whether it’s friends, family, or a support group, talking about your feelings can help alleviate anxiety. If you’re feeling particularly stressed, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for guidance.
Focus on the Present
Anxiety often stems from worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. Practice mindfulness to stay grounded in the present moment. Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or simply focusing on your senses can help you feel calmer and more centred.
Limit Social Media
Social media can amplify feelings of inadequacy or comparison, especially during the holidays. Limit your time scrolling through idealised portrayals of Christmas and remind yourself that what you see online often isn’t the full story.
Create New Traditions
If traditional holiday activities are a source of stress, consider creating your own traditions. This could be something simple like watching your favourite movie, taking a nature walk, or having a quiet dinner at home. Personalising your celebrations can make the holidays feel more meaningful and less stressful.
Practice Gratitude
Focusing on the positives can shift your perspective and reduce anxiety. Take a moment each day to reflect on things you’re grateful for, no matter how small. Gratitude journaling can be a powerful tool to cultivate a more positive outlook.
Final Thoughts
Remember, you don’t have to face Christmas anxiety alone. If you’re finding it hard to cope, reaching out for professional help can make a big difference. At Behavioural Freedom, we’re here to support you with strategies and resources tailored to your needs. By taking small, intentional steps, you can reduce anxiety and create a holiday season that feels more manageable and enjoyable.
How I Treat Anxiety
At Behavioural Freedom, I use a skills-based model for treating anxiety. During our sessions, I will teach you relaxation techniques and helpful ways in which you can fundamentally and positively change the way you behave, think and act. It’s also important to note here that you can’t be stressed or suffer from anxiety when you are in a relaxed state. The skills you’ll learn during your time with me will be vital to both your on-going treatment and perhaps more so as you leave my care.
A combination of Applied Relaxation and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is considered by the British Medical Journal to be one of the most effective therapies to alleviate anxiety and put you on a path to having a positive mind-set and being able to live life to the fullest, free of worries. By combining both and adding in the element of hypnosis, I believe this is the most effective, pragmatic and relevant approach to the treatment of anxiety.
Please contact me today to start the journey back to behavioural freedom.