Beating Holiday Stress

Muskingum County- The holidays are here, but for some it’s not all hot cocoa and mistletoe.

From last minute shopping to packed schedules, the most wonderful time of the year can sometimes feel more hectic than happy. All Well Behavioral Health Services reminds us that it’s completely normal to feel stressed during the holiday season.

“We see an increase here in people with having anxiety and depression as well during the holiday season,” said Director of AllWell Behavioral Health Bradley McHenry. “Those common causes, they just wear their head and sometimes it’s a little harder to take care of. It’s not unusual.”

AllWell said planning ahead can make a big difference. A little preparation can help you avoid last minute chaos and taking care of yourself is just as important as checking items off your holiday to-do list.

“One easy to-do tips is to make lists. Make a list of things that you need to accomplish during the holiday season and a list of things that you want to accomplish,” encouraged McHenry. “Focus on those needs. Those needs are the important things that you feel have to be accomplished. At the end of the day if you have the time and the energy left, then certainly look at those wants and see what you can make out of them. Self care is important any time of the year but definitely during the holidays. At the end of the day, if you are not taking care of yourself, then you’re not able to give to those loved ones and those family members that you’re wanting to spend the holidays with.”

For more tips and information about AllWell Behavioral Health and the services they offer, please visit their website.