While the holidays are happy times for many families, they can also present opportunities for tension and conflict. The annoying sibling, the relative who drinks too much or the one who holds court with anyone who will listen – holiday gatherings can bring dread. Here are four tips to help manage holiday stress? 

1. Manage expectations.

Be realistic about what to expect not only of others but of yourself. This is real life, not a Hallmark Christmas movie!

2. Take care of yourself.

Get the rest you need; avoid drinking and overeating; go for a walk; take a break to regroup. This will help you reset.

3. Know your boundaries.

Don’t be afraid to say no. If visiting family, stay for the amount of time you can manage comfortably. Stay in a hotel and rent a car, so you’re not stuck.

4. Remember you are not a kid anymore.

The feelings you experience when your mom uses a tone, your sibling pushes your button, or a critical aunt passes judgment, are probably rooted in the past. Take a breath and check in with yourself.

Contact the Montfort Group to speak with one of our therapists if you have questions or would
you’d like to learn more about the process.