Not everyone is looking forward to the holidays.
If you are feeling alone, dreading family, or feeling pressured, you are not alone.
Here are some tips that might help:
Try to challenge the "have to's". The perfect holiday gathering doesn't even exist, consider what could be meaningful with less.
Take time for yourself in whatever way possible
Set boundaries with toxic family- this may mean reducing the time you visit, having an "errand" to run, take a walk, visit others. If you really don't want to attend, consider saying no entirely.
After visiting with others that you find draining, reduce your expectations of yourself. Many people report feeling drained, sometimes even sick after visiting family they find triggering.
Try becoming an "observer". Pretend you are studying your relatives and try to distrance yourself from the conversations.
Avoid confronting people that you know that you can not change. Stay away from hot button topics like politics. If children are present, keep the focus on them if that promotes a better environment.
If feeling alone, can you reach out to others that may also be alone? Or volunteer? If neither will work for you, you could create a pampering evening for yourself with a nice meal, treats, hot cocoa, or movies. Try not to turn to alcohol which can increase depressive thoughts.
After the holiday gatherings, treat yourself to some quiet time. Perhaps a movie, a good book or podcast. A walk or other movement before, during the gathering, or afterward, can help to discharge the impact of stress.
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