Dealing with Depression Tip #7

Stress Less this Holiday Season

It's the holiday season. A time when we expect to shop for gifts, make dozens of cookies, decorate the house, entertain family and friends, participate in office festivities and still find time for everything else in our lives.

Whew! Just thinking about it can make even the most organized person cringe. Try these tips to make your holiday season a joyful one:

• Set realistic goals. It's OK not to participate in every activity. Decide what you have time for and what you truly enjoy. If you don't want to participate in the office cookie swap, offer to do something else instead, such as buying gift bags that everyone can use to take cookies home.
• Keep it simple. Just because your neighbor's house is decorated to look like the North Pole does not mean your house must be, also. A door wreath is quick and festive!
• Don't neglect your health. It's important to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods and exercise so that you have energy to enjoy your holidays. And make sure to keep doctor and dentist appointments.
• Be kind to yourself. Let yourself enjoy the holidays even if you did not find the "perfect" gift to give or if you bought cookies instead of making them this year.
• Focus on appreciating family and friends for who they are, and enjoying extra time spent with loved ones.

Try a few of these tips and have a happy, healthy holiday season!

Previous Tips

Helping Your Loved Ones Cope with Depression
Women and Depression
Physical Activity can Reduce Effects of Depression

Laughter Really is the Best Medicine

The Power of Thinking Positively
Postpartum Depression

Visit our online Health Encyclopedia for helpful information about Depression.

Posted: December 11, 2007