Connect with relatives
© American Institute for Preventive Medicine


Connect with relatives
© American Institute for Preventive Medicine


Connect With Relatives

* Make a “To Do” list. Prioritize tasks. Plan rest periods in your hectic schedule.
* Try not to isolate yourself. Be with people you trust and feel safe with, even if you feel down. Volunteer to help others.
* Know your alcohol limit and stick to it. After having one or two drinks with alcohol, have a refreshing non-alcoholic drink, such as sparkling water with lemon or lime.
* Focus more on fun with family and friends than on food. Play with your children and grandchildren.
* Eat at regular times. Do not skip meals.
* Go easy on sweets and holiday treats. Enjoy a warm cup of tea and a handful of walnuts or almonds.
* Deal with emotions without overeating.
– Anger. Take three or four slow, deep breaths. The angry impulse may pass. Take a walk until you can calm down.
– Anxiety. Focus on relaxing with soothing music, meditation, or yoga.
– Boredom. Do an activity that does not involve eating.
– Depression. Be with someone who helps lift your mood. If depression lasts longer than two weeks, contact your doctor.
Connect With Relatives

If holidays are sad due to a lost loved one, plan to be with other people.
For many people, holiday times are too hectic and tiring to be enjoyable. For others, living alone or with memories of a lost loved one brings sadness.
* Schedule activities you enjoy, but take time to unwind.
* Keep from over planning, hosting, and attending too many events.
* Lower expectations of having a perfect holiday. Focus on family traditions that are enjoyable, but realistic.
* Talk to someone you trust if you are having sad feelings.