Tips for the Holidays

Tips for Navigating the Holiday Season

What makes the holidays challenging?

Overall we:

• Are busier
• Have a longer ‘To Do List’
• Spend more money
• Have extra social engagements
• Have greater expectations of ourselves or others
• Find store lines are longer, parking lots more crowded
• Endure more weather ‘challenges’ than we wish!

What can we do about it?

• Make a list of those things that are most important to engage in and let the rest go, we can’t
  do everything
• Adjust expectations of ourselves and others. Rarely do we get the “Hallmark holiday”.
• Embrace a realistic attitude and look for the moments that make the holiday “special” to
  us
• Intentionally do something charitable. Most people report that doing something for someone
  less privileged or giving with no expectation to receive are the most rewarding moments of the
  holidays
• Look for opportunities to purchase a toy, spend time with the elderly, participate in
  an event with children or prisons, or give financially to an organization
• Limit time at places that are stressful, especially family events where there is feuding,
  drunkenness, or an emotionally toxic atmosphere
• Say no to those things we resent doing
• Take time to recharge in small ways
• Don’t overindulge in food or alcohol
• Create a budget and stick to it
• Enjoy quiet times at home
• Be prepared, plan ahead, avoid last minute rushing

Remember the reason for the season and spread love & good cheer!

If you are, or someone you know is, feeling lost, overwhelmed, depressed or in need of support during this holiday season, we at Barrington Behavioral Health and Wellness are here to help.

Phone: 1-888-261-2178
Email: help@barringtonbhw.com

Dr. Denise Casey, Psy.D.

CADC, NBCCHT, ACH, CCT

Dr. Denise Casey is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a Certification in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling and a National Board Certification in Clinical Hypnosis. She is also Certified in Cognitive Therapy and has studied addictions and hypnosis at advanced levels.

Her general experience in working with young adults to seniors has equipped her to deal with a wide variety of issues. Dr. Casey is highly skilled, deeply compassionate, and presents a very casual and caring atmosphere.

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