Holiday Mental Health Triggers Are Everywhere — Here’s How to Handle Them as a Parent
We know that parenting during the holidays can be as unpredictable and chaotic as it can be beautiful and memorable. One moment, you’re sipping cocoa by the fire, and the next, you’re untangling a web of Christmas lights that seem to have no end. But before you succumb to holiday-induced hysteria, let’s talk about the gift that keeps giving: parental self-awareness.
In the whirlwind of holiday preparations and the desire to make the season magical for our loved ones, it’s easy to fall into the trap of forgetting our needs. We become the holiday superheroes, tirelessly baking, decorating, and gift-wrapping, all while neglecting the most critical member of the family – ourselves. Neglecting ourselves can have a profound impact on our mental health, and in turn, it can hinder our ability to fully enjoy the festivities.
As we exhaust ourselves with endless to-do lists, we may experience heightened stress, anxiety, and fatigue. The consequences can manifest in various ways, from irritability to a general sense of overwhelm. This not only takes a toll on our mental well-being but can also affect our relationships with our children and loved ones. When we’re physically and emotionally drained, it becomes challenging to appreciate the joyful moments or create lasting memories with our families.
But the holiday season isn’t just a time for unwrapping presents; it’s also an opportunity to unwrap the layers of self-awareness. So, let’s delve a bit deeper into recognizing your triggers.
What Sets You Off
Take a moment to reflect on what sets off your holiday alarm bells. The first step? Simply acknowledging that they exist.
Once you’ve identified your triggers, you’ll know how to manage them effectively. Is it the chaos of last-minute shopping, the relentless family expectations, or the weight of financial strain during this gift-giving season? Do you secretly dread those awkward family gatherings or the office party where you have to wear your best reindeer sweater? By shining a spotlight on these pesky culprits, you’re already one step closer to regaining control.
Manage the Mayhem Your Way
Now, let’s talk about managing those triggers. Picture them as unruly elves, and you’re the boss. For example, when Aunt Mildred strikes with some passive-aggressive comment regarding your cooking this year, you can respond with humor or gracefully change the topic because you are prepared and have decided that nothing, not even the Grinch, will steal your peace and happiness this season. Remember, you can choose how to handle those trigger points.
Handling Your Expectations
Suppose you put pressure on yourself to create the “perfect” holiday experience, complete with Martha Stewart-worthy decorations and an elaborate feast that even Gordon Ramsay would applaud. Understandbly, that very high bar is stressing you out.
The holidays are a good time to remind yourself that perfection is overrated. The kids won’t remember the perfectly aligned ornaments, but they’ll cherish the moments when you laughed or danced together while decorating the tree. Embrace the imperfections, breathe in the chaos, and handle those triggers gracefully, and you’ll transform your holiday season into a memorable masterpiece.
Embrace the Power of ‘No’
Amid the holiday hustle and bustle, remember that rest and sleep are not just optional but essential. It’s tempting to double-book ourselves in a frenzied effort to say yes to every event, every request, and every favor, but we need to embrace the power of ‘no.’ Learning to say no is like unwrapping a gift of sanity for yourself.
Instead of spreading yourself too thin, prioritize the gatherings and events that truly resonate with your sense of comfort and joy. It’s like selecting the coziest spot by the fire to sip that hot cocoa. By choosing wisely, you’ll take care of your own well-being and bring your best self to the moments that matter most during the holiday season. So, give yourself permission to rest, learn to say no, and savor the celebrations that bring genuine warmth to your heart.
Santa’s List of Self-Care
The holiday season isn’t just about making gingerbread houses; it’s also about nurturing your well-being. Remember to take a breather during events, maybe even hiding in your room for a few minutes if needed. If you are part of a Secret Santa at work or home, you can always hint to others that this year, all you want for the holidays are things that will help you increase your well-being and help you enjoy yourself. Who knows? You might get a self-care trip to the Caribbean!
So, as we venture into this festive season, let’s remind ourselves that we deserve some holiday cheer, too. It’s not selfish; it’s self-preservation. By prioritizing self-care and embracing parental self-awareness, we can better safeguard our mental health and ensure that we’re giving and receiving the gift of joy during this magical time of the year. Now, embrace the madness and the magic while knowing you’ve got this!
Welcome to Family Reset, a monthly column and must-go destination for all parents seeking guidance (and grasping for some sanity) in the wild adventure of raising children. Behind this compelling and candid read is New York licensed psychotherapist, writer, editor, and “mommyyy” Zuania Capó, (or just call her Z), a compassionate, multicultural, and integrative therapist passionate about supporting families to thrive and connect. Armed with a touch of wisdom, insightful tips, a witty spirit, tons of honesty, and a sprinkle of humor, she is here to help you navigate the complexities of parenthood while prioritizing your well-being.
Family Reset is not just a source of advice; it’s a vibrant community where parents can find inspiration, share their stories, and realize they are not alone in the exhilarating roller coaster ride of parenting. Have questions? Want answers? Get ready to hit that reset button and connect with Z at zuania@integrativetherapynj.com.
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