5 Tips for Controlling Anxiety during the Holidays

The holidays are a wonderful time of the year. But if you’re part of the 18% of Americans living with anxiety,, you might find that the holidays are more “dreadful” than “wonderful.”

Between shopping for gifts, going to holiday parties, preparing meals for the entire family, and spending a lot of cash, you might find your anxiety has turned you into a Scrooge. Instead of letting your anxiety get the best of you, Nexclin Medicine, located in Roswell, Georgia, is here to share five tips with you to control your anxiety during the holidays.

  1.  Limit your alcohol intake

For many people, holidays and alcohol go hand-in-hand. While a glass of wine may help calm your anxiety at the time, it’s known to bring more anxiety the next day as well as strengthen feelings of depression.

Alcohol impacts serotonin and other neurotransmitters in your brain, negatively impacting your mental health. Try replacing your glass of wine with a mocktail or a CBD-infused tea.

  2.  Organize your plans

It’s no secret that having a messy house can heighten your anxiety. In one study, women who had a cluttered house and unfinished projects were more likely to be depressed, which is directly linked to heightened anxiety. The same is true when it comes to your holiday plans.

Putting off booking your flight home for Thanksgiving won’t make the problem go away. The longer you wait, the fewer flight options you’ll have, and the more costly it could be. Take the steps to organize your travel plans in advance so you’re not left scrambling when the days get closer. Procrastination breeds anxiety.

  3.  Don’t be afraid to say no

You might feel obligated to say yes to every party you’re invited to around the holidays. Before you know it, you’ll be overbooked and depleted of the energy you need to go to the events you really want to.

If your work’s holiday party is more stressful than fun, remember you have the option of politely declining. Save your energy and time for the people in your life who bring you happiness and joy. Not the ones who bring drama and pull you down.

  4.  Make time for you

It’s easy to let Thanksgiving and Christmas preparations get in the way of your normal routine. But making time for you can help reduce your anxiety and reset your mind. Don’t kick your meditation or yoga practice to the curb during the time you need it most. 

Try waking up early or setting aside an hour a day where you can focus on you. It will help keep you calm and collected and focused on a healthy relationship with yourself.

  5.  Eat right

One of the best parts about the holiday season is the delicious food. It’s easy to give in to cravings during the winter months, but gluttonous behaviors only add to your stress and guilt. 

To curb your cravings, try eating a healthy snack before heading to a holiday party. Make room on your plate for your favorite foods, but limit your portions and use a small plate when heading to the snack table.

Remember to stay active and go for a walk or catch a pilates class. Not only will it help burn those extra calories, but it will also help reduce your anxiety.

The bottom line

The holiday season is about spending time with family and giving to those who are less fortunate. As we ramp up for these busy times, you might find your anxiety building. These are just a few of the tips that can help keep your anxiety at bay this year. 

If you still find you can’t enjoy yourself in the midst of it, it could be a sign you need professional help. Don’t let your anxiety overrule your wellbeing — call us at 770-558-2873 or book your appointment online.