Managing Stress During the Holidays

The holidays are a time for celebration, but they can also bring feelings of stress, grief, anxiety and sadness. Whether it is the pressure to create the perfect holiday, navigating family dynamics or dealing with loneliness or social anxiety, this time of year can be challenging for some.

Below are tips to help you reduce stress during the holiday season and create memorable moments:

• Check in with yourself: Acknowledging and validating your feelings can help manage stress and negative emotions.
• Engage in self-care: Prioritize activities that bring you joy, like exercising, relaxing or spending time with loved ones.
• Volunteer and connect: Helping others can boost your mood and create positive connections.
• Create new traditions: Establish new ways to celebrate the holidays that bring you comfort and joy.
• Seek professional support: If you need additional support, reach out to a medical professional.

It’s normal to experience a range of emotions during the holidays. By prioritizing your mental health, embracing new traditions and taking care of yourself, you can focus on moments of joy.

For more information contact, the Employee Assistance Program at 1-800-424-5988 (TTY 711) or visit MagellanHealthcare.com for helpful resources.