HIMPower Magazine HimPower December 2017 | Page 30

HEALTH & WELLNESS
Stress Depression & the
Holidays — Tips for Coping
The Mayo Clinic
S
tress and depression can ruin your holi-
days and hurt your health. Being realis-
tic, planning ahead and seeking support
can help ward off stress and depression.
The holiday season often brings unwel-
come guests — stress and depression. And
it's no wonder. The holidays present a
dizzying array of demands — parties, shop-
ping, baking, cleaning and entertaining, to
name just a few.
But with some practical tips, you can
minimize the stress that accompanies the
holidays. You may even end up enjoying the
holidays more than you thought you would.
TIPS TO PREVENT HOLIDAY STRESS
AND DEPRESSION
When stress is at its peak, it's hard to
stop and regroup. Try to prevent stress and
30  HimPower December 2017
depression in the first place, especially if the
holidays have taken an emotional toll on
you in the past.
1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR FEELINGS
If someone close to you has recently
died or you can't be with loved ones, realize
that it's normal to feel sadness and grief. It's
OK to take time to cry or express your feel-
ings. You can't force yourself to be happy
just because it's the holiday season.
2. REACH OUT
If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out
community, religious or other social events.
They can offer support and companionship.
Volunteering your time to help others also is
a good way to lift your spirits and broaden
your friendships.