Do You Have The Winter Blues?
Dec 01, 2017
The holidays are a great time to be thankful for everything including family and friends; however, stress levels during the holiday season tend to spike. There are many things you can do to manage the stress in order to have a healthy and happy holiday season:
- Stick to a healthy routine. Try eating healthy and exercising regularly.
- Another thing that may be helpful is making a budget for yourself to help you be accountable for your money during the holidays. Money can be a huge stressor for people, so that budget can keep you on track and keep your stress level low.
- Take time for yourself during the holidays. Even though the holidays are a time to be with family and friends sometimes you just need time for yourself. Try these things: taking a walk, listen to music, and reading a book. They will help you de-stress and give you that “me” time that you may need.
Remember to enjoy the holiday season and be mindful of how much stress you are under.. If you are concerned about your stress level, consult a professional. Have a healthy and happy holiday season!
Are you concerned you may be stressed?
Ask yourself the following questions…
1. Am I feeling tired or run down most of the time?
2. Am I having difficulty remembering things?
3. Am I eating more or less to cope with my feelings?
4. Am I feeling more irritable or moody?
5. Do I have new aches or pains?
6. Am I isolating myself from others?
7. Am I procrastinating or putting off important tasks?
8. Do I feel overwhelmed?
9. Do I have a general sense of sadness or unhappiness?
10. Am I having anxious or racing thoughts?
If you answered yes to more than 4 of the questions, you are likely experiencing increased stress levels. Please consult a professional, such as your family health care provider or a counselor. Another great local resource is the Helpline Center, which serves thousands of people every year by connecting individuals and families to resources and support. Simply call 2-1-1.
